BJP Condemns Congress for Rally on November 1, Claims It Offends Sikh Community
Delhi BJP leader criticizes Congress for scheduling a rally on November 1, claiming it disrespects the Sikh communitys sentiments.
New Delhi, October 30 (Daily Kiran) : Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra expressed strong disapproval on Friday regarding Congress’s decision to hold a rally on November 1, a date that coincides with the remembrance of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Malhotra stated that this rally has hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community, which mourns the loss of thousands during the tragic events.
In response, the Delhi BJP has organized a symbolic protest march in Hari Nagar, a Sikh-majority area in West Delhi, scheduled for the same day. This march will include thousands of Sikh citizens and BJP workers, and will be led by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.
Malhotra emphasized that the period from October 31 to November 3 marks a particularly dark chapter in Indian history for the Sikh community. He recalled how, from the evening of October 31, 1984, to November 3, Congress workers perpetrated violence against innocent Sikhs, looting their homes and businesses.
He accused Congress of attempting to politically revive their disgraced leader Rahul Gandhi by holding the rally, thereby disrespecting the Sikh community. Malhotra noted that Sikhs across the nation are demanding an apology from Congress for the atrocities committed by its members on November 1, 1984.
Over the past ten days, several Sikh leaders and representatives from Sikh organizations have met with BJP officials to voice their concerns and seek support in bringing the community’s sentiments to the forefront.
Additionally, local traders are expressing frustration over the planned rally, fearing that the influx of vehicles from outside Delhi could cause significant traffic disruptions and adversely affect their businesses. They have urged Congress leaders to postpone the rally until after Diwali, but the party has refused to reconsider its decision.
Furthermore, new pollution control regulations will come into effect in Delhi on November 1, restricting the entry of vehicles that do not meet BS-VI standards. Malhotra warned that if Delhi police block older vehicles attempting to join the rally, Congress leaders may create a scene, alleging that the government is trying to thwart their protest.
He lamented that Congress chose this significant date to reintroduce their failed leader, showing insensitivity toward the Sikh community’s feelings and the potential economic impact on local businesses, as well as the increasing pollution levels affecting residents.
