Chandigarh BJP president Jatinder Pal Malhotra has sparked a major controversy with his alleged remarks against the Punjabi community during a sports function address. The statement has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and even from within his own party, with demands for an apology and his resignation from the post.
Alleged Remarks and Reactions
Malhotra's comments, made at a sports event, were perceived as derogatory towards Punjabis. While he maintains that his words were misinterpreted, leaders from the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have condemned the statement. Notably, BJP councillor and former Senior Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Sandhu also criticized Malhotra, calling the remarks shameful and urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take notice.
Demand for Resignation
Sandhu, representing ward number 14, released a video on social media demanding Malhotra's resignation from the party president's position. Opposition parties echoed this demand, with the Congress city unit president HS Lucky insisting on an unconditional apology and withdrawal of the statement.
Malhotra's Defense
In his defense, Malhotra claimed that the Congress party deliberately twisted his remarks to mislead the public. He emphasized his own Punjabi heritage and respect for the community, stating that the controversial term was used in a self-referential context during an emotional moment. He explained that he had expanded a small sports event into a city-wide festival involving over 3,000 children, and the expression was taken out of context.
Malhotra further alleged that Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring was promoting an incomplete clip to divert attention from a controversial video involving one of his close associates, calling it a political conspiracy.
Protests and Warnings
Congress workers, led by councillor Sachin Galav, protested outside the BJP office in Chandigarh. SAD president Charanjit Singh Villy condemned the remarks as highly unfortunate and derogatory, demanding an unconditional apology. The AAP warned of gheraoing the BJP office and launching a public movement if Malhotra is not removed within 24 hours.
The controversy continues to escalate, with political parties leveraging the issue ahead of upcoming elections.
