All opposition political parties in Chandigarh on Thursday strongly condemned the alleged remarks made by Chandigarh BJP president Jatinder Pal Malhotra against the Punjabi community. Congress workers, led by youth leader Sachin Galav, staged a protest, while other parties like the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) also criticized the statement, calling it an insult to Punjabis.
Congress Protest
Congress protesters marched towards the BJP office in Chandigarh but were stopped by police. They also burnt an effigy of Malhotra. Speaking to the media, Galav said, "We held a peaceful protest against the highly offensive statement allegedly made by BJP state president Jitender Pal Malhotra referring to Punjabis as 'Bloody Fools.' Such a statement insults Punjabis and attacks the pride, dignity, and rich culture of Punjab."
AAP and SAD Reactions
The local AAP unit strongly condemned the remarks, demanding Malhotra's immediate removal. AAP stated, "This is not an isolated incident. BJP leaders have repeatedly insulted Punjabis, labelling them as 'Khalistanis' or using derogatory language." SAD Chandigarh president Charanjit Singh also rebutted the statement, saying, "Punjabis are known globally for being warm-hearted but are nobody's fools."
BJP Councillor's Criticism
Even BJP's own elected councillor, Kuljeet Singh Sandhu, lambasted Malhotra, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take notice of the matter.
Malhotra's Clarification
Reacting to the criticism, Malhotra said Congress deliberately twisted his remarks. He clarified that he himself is from Punjab and respects the community. He explained that the term 'Bloody Fool' referred to himself, not any individual or community, and that the video circulated lacked context.
