In a tense confrontation near Sandeshkhali in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, Sikh IPS officer Jaspreet Singh found himself at the center of controversy as he was allegedly subjected to a ‘Khalistani’ slur by activists of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The incident unfolded as Singh and his team were deployed to prevent senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari from visiting the restive area.
Accompanying Adhikari, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul dismissed the allegations, claiming that the officer was neglecting his duties and denying any use of the term ‘Khalistani’ by BJP supporters. However, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned what she described as the BJP’s “divisive politics,” emphasizing the need to respect Sikh individuals and their contributions to the nation.
In response to the alleged slur, Singh expressed his dismay, questioning the basis for labeling him a Khalistani simply because of his turban. He reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his duties impartially and condemned any attempt to bring religion into the discourse.
Banerjee, sharing a video clip of the incident, reiterated her condemnation of the BJP’s actions, emphasizing the importance of preserving social harmony in Bengal and vowing to take lawful measures against any attempts to disrupt it.
The BJP, however, denied the accusations and accused Singh of failing to uphold constitutional duties. The incident has sparked outrage within the Sikh community, with plans for protests outside the BJP’s state headquarters in Kolkata and in Asansol.
Earlier in the day, Adhikari was prevented from visiting Sandeshkhali by police, citing prohibitory orders and legal proceedings initiated by the state government. However, he later gained permission from the division bench of the Calcutta High Court to visit the area, which has been embroiled in controversy following allegations of land-grabbing and sexual assault.
The unrest in Sandeshkhali stems from accusations against Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh and his supporters, with tensions escalating after a mob reportedly affiliated with him attacked Enforcement Directorate officials earlier in January.
