Furore in Punjab over Tripura CM’s ‘anti-Sikh’ comments

CHANDIGARH: Political parties in Punjab slammed Tripura CM Biplab Deb for his ‘anti-Sikh, anti-Jat’ comment, though he later apologised saying those were “thoughts of some people”.
AAP leader and Punjab leader of opposition Harpal Singh Cheema said, “BJP has always practised hate and communal politics. Such remarks raise deep questions on BJP’s intent on Punjab. He should be sacked and BJP should apologise for such shameful display of thought by its CM.”
Congress MLA from Amritsar West Raj Kumar Verka said it showed the BJP’s ‘anti Sikh and anti-Jat’ mindset. “It should apologise and send a notice to the CM. A person in such a position should not have made such a statement.”
Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee president Manjinder Singh Sirsa added, “Tripura CM needs to refresh his knowledge before commenting on any community. He has no rights to pass insensitive comments on Sikhs and Jats.” “I got to know he has apologised but it would have been better if he had done his homework before using such words. He should know about (Sikh) history and think before speaking,” he added.
In Amritsar, SGPC president Gobind Singh Longowal said Deb’s was statement unfortunate as Sikhs had made many sacrifices for the country. “Punjabis and sardars are saviours of the nation and have a glorious history,” he said.
Earlier, Deb’s speech had gone viral on social media where he was heard saying that Sikhs and Jats are both strongly built but have “low intellect” and that they can be countered on intelligence if not physical prowess. Deb went on to say Bengalis are known for their sharp intellect.
Taking to twitter, Deb wrote on Tuesday, “I had mentioned thoughts of some people about Punjabis and Jats during an event at Agartala Press Club. My intention was not to hurt any community. I am proud of both Punjabi and Jat communities. I have spent a lot of time among them myself.”