Punjab BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, accusing him of indulging in 'temple politics' driven purely by electoral opportunism. Dhillon's remarks came in response to Kejriwal's recent statements and visits to religious sites, which the BJP leader dismissed as a desperate attempt to gain political traction in the state.
Kejriwal's sudden religious turn draws criticism
Dhillon said that Kejriwal, who has often positioned himself as a rationalist and an anti-establishment figure, is now suddenly embracing religious symbolism ahead of the upcoming Punjab assembly elections. 'Someone lacking even a basic understanding of the Ramayana cannot credibly preach religion to Punjabis,' Dhillon stated, according to a PTI report published on 8 July 2026.
The Punjab BJP chief highlighted that Kejriwal's newfound piety appears to be a stark contrast to his earlier stance. 'The same person who once questioned the necessity of temples is now visiting them. This exposes his electoral opportunism,' Dhillon added.
Political implications in Punjab
The attack comes amid a heated political climate in Punjab, where all major parties are vying for the support of the state's diverse electorate. The BJP, which is part of the ruling alliance at the centre, has been trying to consolidate its position in Punjab by focusing on issues of national security and religious identity. Dhillon's remarks are seen as an attempt to question Kejriwal's credibility on religious matters.
Kejriwal has recently stepped up his visits to temples and religious gatherings, including a much-publicised trip to the under-construction Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The AAP leader has also been vocal about his support for the Ram Mandir project, a stance that Dhillon termed as 'convenient conversion'.
BJP accuses AAP of hypocrisy
Dhillon further accused the AAP of hypocrisy, pointing out that the party had earlier opposed the construction of the Ram Mandir and had even questioned the timing of the Supreme Court verdict. 'Now, when elections are near, they are trying to appropriate the sentiments of Hindus. This is nothing but a cheap political stunt,' he said.
The BJP chief also reminded voters of Kejriwal's previous statements where he had criticised the BJP for 'politicising religion'. 'He is doing exactly what he accused others of. This double standard will not fool the people of Punjab,' Dhillon asserted.
Impact on Punjab politics
Political analysts suggest that the BJP's sharp criticism of Kejriwal's temple politics is part of a broader strategy to counter the AAP's growing influence in Punjab. The AAP has emerged as a strong contender in the state, particularly after its performance in the 2022 assembly elections. By questioning Kejriwal's religious credentials, the BJP aims to appeal to the state's Hindu voters, who form a significant portion of the electorate.
Meanwhile, the AAP has defended Kejriwal's visits to temples, stating that the party respects all religions and is not engaging in vote-bank politics. However, Dhillon's remarks have added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse in Punjab, with both parties trading barbs over religious issues.
