The political atmosphere in Punjab has been charged with allegations of religious insensitivity as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). On Tuesday, AAP's Punjab chief spokesperson and MLA, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, accused the BJP of crossing all limits by creating and posting a poster that allegedly depicted Sikh Gurus and the Sahibzadas in a cartoonish manner.
Allegations of Disrespect During Sacred Observance
Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal stated that the BJP's actions came at a time when the global Sikh community is immersed in the solemn observance of Shaheedi Saptah (martyrdom week), a period dedicated to honoring the supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzadas. He condemned the poster as a "shameful" act that violated core Sikh principles, where the portrayal of Gurus through images or cartoons is strictly prohibited. Dhaliwal emphasized that this move had deeply hurt the sentiments of Sikhs and Punjabis worldwide.
Echoing these sentiments, AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang labeled the incident a "shameful, insensitive and deliberate act" by the BJP. He went a step further by alleging that the controversy was manufactured intentionally to disturb the peace and harmony of Punjab. Kang questioned the motives behind the poster, suggesting it was a calculated political move.
SGPC's Silence Under Scrutiny
A significant part of the AAP's criticism was directed not just at the BJP but also at the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex religious body of the Sikhs. Both leaders expressed shock and disappointment over the SGPC's muted response to the issue.
Malvinder Singh Kang called it "extremely unfortunate" that the SGPC did not immediately oppose the poster. He hinted at "political collusion" as the reason behind the lack of a concrete response from the committee. Dhaliwal demanded that the SGPC cease being a "mute spectator" and ensure immediate religious and legal action against the BJP for the alleged sacrilege.
Political Repercussions and Demands for Action
The incident has swiftly escalated into a major political issue in the state. The AAP's forceful condemnation puts pressure on both the BJP to explain the origins of the controversial poster and on the SGPC to break its silence and take a definitive stand. The demand for legal action underscores the seriousness with which the party is treating the matter, framing it not just as a political misstep but as a potential violation of religious protocol and law.
The controversy erupts in a sensitive period, testing the political narratives around religious respect and communal harmony in Punjab. The coming days are likely to see increased political maneuvering as parties position themselves on this emotionally charged issue.
