Delhi: Delhi’s political corridors witnessed fresh controversy after Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa expressed deep anguish over remarks made by the Aam Aadmi Party’s Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, Atishi, which he termed as using “insensitive words” against Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Sirsa, in an emotional statement, said, “First of all, I am deeply sorry and very saddened by what happened yesterday in the Legislative Assembly. What pains me most is that the discussion was about the great martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur ji. Whether the Aam Aadmi Party wanted to pay their respects or not is their own decision, and that feeling is personal. However, when in the entire Legislative Assembly, from the government side, the Chief Minister, the ministers, to all ruling party MLAs, people were discussing Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, sharing details about his religious journey, and repeating what happened yesterday in the Assembly, it became very distressing…”
The Minister’s statement highlights the growing tension in the Delhi Assembly over the handling of sensitive historical and religious topics. According to Sirsa, the discussion about the revered Sikh Guru’s martyrdom should have been approached with utmost respect and care, reflecting the sentiments of the Sikh community.
Sirsa added that while individuals have personal opinions, the collective tone in the Assembly must always honor the legacy of India’s spiritual and historical figures. The Minister’s remarks have reignited debate over political decorum, religious sensitivity, and the responsibilities of lawmakers when discussing revered personalities in public forums.
Political observers note that this episode could escalate into a larger religious and political debate, with opposition parties and community leaders closely monitoring how the Delhi government addresses these concerns.
