DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

AAP Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur has strongly condemned the disgraceful statement made by Khalistani supporter Gurpatwant Pannun about Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. She said that the communal harmony of Punjab is very strong, and those who attempt to divide people here will never succeed.

Addressing a press conference at the party office in Chandigarh on Sunday, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Gurpatwant Pannun has made a highly disgusting statement under the guise of Sikhism. His remarks clearly show that he has no knowledge about Sikhism or Dr. Ambedkar.

She said, "Our Gurus considered all people equal, and in Sikh prayers, it is always asked for the welfare of all. Guru Gobind Singh Ji referred to Dalit brothers as 'Rangrete Guru Ke Bete'. The five beloved ones (Panj Pyare) of Sikhism are also a shining example of this. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is called 'Hind Di Chadar' because he raised his voice and sacrificed his life for the people of the Hindu religion."

Dr. Ambedkar himself was deeply influenced by Sikhism. Through the Constitution, he granted equal rights to the oppressed sections of society. He also made special provisions in the Constitution for women and minorities. Dr. Ambedkar does not belong only to the Dalits ? he belongs to every section of society. To make such a vile comment about such a great personality is extremely shameful.

She said that Gurpatwant Pannun is saying he will break the statues of Baba Saheb Ambedkar. "I want to tell him that the statues of Dr. Ambedkar are not only in Punjab or India but also in Canada, the USA, Japan, and many other countries. Would you go everywhere to break his statues?" she said.

She added that the truth is that Gurpatwant Pannun is trying to spoil the peaceful atmosphere of Punjab through such statements. He is trying to spread hatred in the hearts of people here. But the brotherhood of Punjab can never be broken because Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, and Christians of Punjab have always lived together and will continue to do so.

She said that those who talk about harming the statues of Baba Saheb Ambedkar should take note that the Aam Aadmi Party will not only safeguard his statues but will also protect his ideas and ideals.

(editor@dailyworld.in)