The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has vehemently refuted allegations that its Bengal unit leader, Suvendu Adhikari, and other party workers resorted to derogatory remarks, including the use of the term “Khalistani,” against a Sikh IPS officer during a confrontation near violence-stricken Sandeshkhali in West Bengal.

The controversy unfolded as South Bengal Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Supratim Sarkar accused Adhikari of making disparaging remarks against the police officer. The police vowed strict action against Adhikari, prompting a swift response from the BJP.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the BJP accused the officer, Jaspreet Singh, of violating a Calcutta High Court order that permitted Adhikari to visit Sandeshkhali. The state BJP further alleged that the Bengal Police was prioritizing political agendas over law enforcement.

Adhikari, in his defense, accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of fabricating the issue to divert attention from the situation in Sandeshkhali. He criticized the police’s involvement in what he termed as political maneuvers.

The incident drew condemnation from various quarters, including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who termed the actions of the BJP leader as highly condemnable. AAP leader and Delhi minister Gopal Rai also criticized the BJP, emphasizing the importance of respecting individuals irrespective of caste, religion, or region.

The Sikh IPS officer at the center of the controversy expressed his dismay over being labeled a “Khalistani” and criticized the behavior of saffron party activists. This led to a war of words between TMC and BJP leaders.

Subsequently, members of the Sikh community staged protests outside the BJP’s state headquarters in Kolkata and in Asansol, denouncing the alleged slur.

The backdrop to this controversy stems from ongoing protests in Sandeshkhali, triggered by allegations of sexual assault against a Trinamool Congress leader and his supporters.