Delhi Assembly Speaker Cites FSL Report, Says Atishi Video Not Doctored, Orders CBI Probe
Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta made a significant announcement on Saturday. He cited a forensic science laboratory (FSL) report. The report found that a video of Leader of Opposition Atishi is not doctored. The video allegedly shows Atishi making derogatory remarks against a Sikh guru.
Gupta stated he will order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the matter. This decision aims to establish the truth beyond reasonable doubt. It also seeks to fix accountability in the case.
FSL Report Findings and Speaker's Statement
Vijender Gupta flagged a copy of the FSL report during his media address. He explained the report's conclusions clearly. The forensic analysis establishes no tampering with the audio and video recording of the House proceedings. Gupta emphasized the verbatim record matches the audio-video exactly.
The Speaker highlighted serious questions about parallel investigations. He pointed to alleged misuse of state agencies by the Punjab government. These concerns prompted his call for a CBI probe. Gupta wants an independent investigation to ensure transparency and justice.
AAP's Rejection and Counterclaims
Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bharadwaj promptly rejected the FSL report. He argued the report fails to answer a key question. Did Atishi actually utter the word "gurus" in her remarks? Bharadwaj insisted this omission makes the report incomplete.
Bharadwaj referenced the Punjab Police's own forensic examination. The AAP-led Punjab government claimed earlier that the video was doctored. Bharadwaj stated both reports agree on one point. Atishi did not use the word 'guru'. He accused BJP leader Kapil Mishra of insulting gurus instead. Bharadwaj demanded Mishra's removal from the Assembly.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy erupted during the Winter Session of the Delhi Assembly. A discussion occurred on January 6 about the Delhi government's programme. The programme marked the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
The BJP alleged Atishi made objectionable remarks about the Sikh Guru during this discussion. Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra uploaded a video of Atishi's statement in the House. The Delhi Assembly then sent the video for forensic examination.
Gupta criticized the Punjab Police's actions during this process. The Punjab Police conducted its own forensic examination and registered an FIR while the Assembly's authorized forensic process was still underway. Gupta said these actions raise grave questions about propriety and intent. He stressed the importance of adhering to due process.
Political Reactions and Ongoing Dispute
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also weighed in on the matter. In a post on X, she stated the FSL report clarifies the video is 100% correct. She affirmed the video was not tampered with, supporting the Speaker's position.
The dispute highlights deep political tensions between the AAP and BJP in Delhi. It also involves inter-state dynamics with Punjab. The call for a CBI probe adds a new layer to this ongoing controversy. All parties await further developments as investigations proceed.
