A delegation comprising seven members of the Sikh community convened with West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Thursday to address the alleged incident involving the labeling of an IPS officer as 'Khalistani'. Following a comprehensive discussion lasting nearly two hours, the leaders of the delegation conveyed that the Governor had provided assurances of taking appropriate action to address the issue.
Gurmeet Singh, who led the delegation, remarked that the Governor attentively listened to their concerns and pledged to uphold justice in the matter.
"The Governor expressed his appreciation for the significant contributions made by the Sikh community to the nation. It has come to our attention that it was Suvendu Adhikari who labeled the IPS officer as a Khalistani. We have urged him (the Governor) to intervene and take necessary action. He assured us that he would correspond with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding this matter," Singh informed India Today TV.
In addition to verbal assurances, the Bengal Governor furnished the delegation with a written statement, highlighting the invaluable contributions of Punjabis to India.
"India is indebted to the courageous Punjabis. Our Punjabi soldiers stand as sturdy bastions safeguarding national security. The diligent efforts of Punjabi farmers ensure an ample supply of food grains to sustain the nation. Punjab's profound influence on India's cultural heritage has garnered recognition worldwide," the letter underscored.
The Governor reaffirmed Bengal's steadfast support for the Punjabi community, asserting, "Bengal stands in solidarity with you, India stands in solidarity with you, society stands in solidarity with you, and our culture stands alongside you."
As a symbolic gesture of respect, Raj Bhavan announced plans to establish a Punjabi Bagh within its premises.
The controversy ensued after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shared a video depicting a turbaned Sikh police officer protesting against being branded a "Khalistani" during a BJP rally in Sandeshkhali. In the video, the officer expressed his dismay, stating, "Just because I wear a turban, you assume this. If I didn't wear a turban, would you still call me a Khalistani? You can criticize the police all you want, but you cannot make derogatory remarks about my religion."
Subsequently, the West Bengal Police alleged that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari was responsible for using the 'Khalistani' slur against the Sikh police officer.
Meanwhile, the BJP accused the Sikh IPS officer of contravening a Calcutta High Court order by participating in the incident, alleging that he acted unlawfully as an agent of the Chief Minister.
