Punjab BJP Chief Questions Atishi’s Statement Amid Forensic Findings

Sunil Jakhar, the President of the Punjab BJP, has raised significant concerns regarding a video released by former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. On January 10, 2024, Jakhar suggested that Atishi’s clarification regarding her video could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. He also highlighted that the Punjab Police had conducted a forensic examination of her video within one day, subsequently clearing her of any wrongdoing.

Jakhar questioned the swift action taken by the Punjab Police in Atishi’s case, stating that it contrasts sharply with the lack of urgency regarding a separate video allegedly involving Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. He expressed frustration that, despite significant time having passed, no forensic examination had been conducted on the Chief Minister’s video, which is linked to allegations of religious sacrilege. Jakhar argued that the absence of investigation raises suspicions about the matter.

In a direct challenge to Mann, Jakhar called for either his resignation or an immediate investigation into the alleged video. He emphasized that if the police could clear Atishi within a day, they should be able to do the same for the Chief Minister. “If the Chief Minister does not have the courage to get a forensic examination conducted into the video related to him, then he has no moral right to continue in office,” Jakhar stated.

Jakhar criticized the Punjab government for not investigating two other audio-video clips that have been circulating for an extended period, suggesting this reflects poorly on the administration’s commitment to transparency. He noted that in her clarification, Atishi admitted to using the term “dogs,” questioning the context of this language during Assembly proceedings. The BJP leader linked this to the government’s apparent contradiction of honoring Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib while allowing such statements to be made in the Assembly.

The Punjab BJP President also pointed out the disparity in the speed of investigations, noting that while Atishi’s video was examined quickly, serious allegations involving the Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) related to election rigging remain unaddressed. He posited that the failure to investigate these clips suggests they might be genuine, and he urged the government to act swiftly to establish the truth.

Jakhar reiterated the importance of addressing the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, citing a rise in drug-related issues and increasing corruption. He announced that the BJP plans to stage a protest at the Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh on January 16 to demand accountability from the government.

This ongoing political tension highlights the challenges faced by the current administration in Punjab, as allegations and public scrutiny continue to mount. The BJP’s calls for transparency and accountability resonate amid growing concerns over governance and public safety in the region.