Chandigarh [India], September 13 (ANI): BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh on Friday strongly reacted to an “eyewash” exercise carried out by Punjab LoP Partap Singh Bajwa and former chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi to defend Congress leader Rahul Singh’s remarks on the Sikhs, saying that the Sikhs across the world know that he tried to play in the hands of deep state.
During his trip to the US, Rahul commented that the Sikhs in India cannot wear a kada, or turban or go to the Gurdwara under the BJP rule. Chugh said Rahul Gandhi , playing in the hands of foreign forces, delivered those comments in the US without knowing the ground reality.
Chugh said that as an eyewash, Bajwa is trying to cover up ” his master,” knowing very well that Rahul has insulted the Sikhs world over.
Chugh expressed his anguish over Rahul Gandhi’s comments during his US trip, accusing him of misrepresenting India’s internal situation. He stated that Rahul Gandhi’s claims about people being targeted based on religion, caste, language, and identity were false and damaging to India’s image as a thriving democracy.
Chugh described these remarks as politically motivated, aimed at garnering sympathy rather than constructively addressing real concerns.
Regarding the farmers’ protests, Chugh emphasised that the BJP government consistently engaged with farmers through multiple discussions during the protests.
“Contrary to what Congress claims, the government listened to the farmers and took decisive steps by repealing the farm laws, demonstrating a commitment to peace and upholding the democratic values. The government values the farmers contribution to national food security and prosperity,” he said.
Tarun Chugh dismissed the extreme comparison of the government action to Nazi’s of Germany as both irresponsible and disrespectful. Chugh further said, “Protest is a democratic right of people and in the name of farmers, there were vested interests who had plans to disturb the peace within the country as a part of their toolkit agenda. The whole country knows the truth behind who funded these protests. The Congress party’s attempts to politicise issues, such as the farmers’ protests, are not going to work anymore.”
Chugh also highlighted the recent increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif crops as evidence of the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare.
Chugh blamed the collapse of the economy in Punjab as a consequence of Congress mismanagement. “The economic issues Punjab faces today have arisen from decades of mismanagement by the previous Congress-led governments. The BJP has undertaken various development projects in the state, including investments in health, education, and infrastructure,” he said.
Claiming a deliberate economic blockade is merely an attempt to shift blame away from the poor governance for which Congress is responsible, the leader said that Punjab’s growth and progress remain a priority for the BJP.
Tarun Chugh dismissed statements of congress leaders on the accusations of “democratic erosion” saying it was entirely baseless.
Chugh further said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP has brought about reforms that have strengthened transparency, accountability, and good governance. From the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the empowerment of local self-governance institutions, the BJP has continuously worked towards uplifting marginalised communities such as Dalits, OBCs, and minorities. Our inclusive policies are proof of our commitment to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of background, has equal opportunities. Commitment to strengthening democracy has been the core of government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
He said that the BJP has the utmost respect for all religious communities, including the Sikh community.
“Initiatives to honour Sikh heritage have been part of the BJP’s broader commitment to safeguarding religious freedoms. Rahul Gandhi’s attempt to portray the BJP as neglecting or discriminating against the Sikh community is factually incorrect and reflects a broader political propoganda to create a false narrative for electoral gain. The BJP has taken numerous steps to honour the contributions of the Sikh community to India’s history and culture,” he said.
Chugh further said, “The country has not forgotten the contribution of Congress Party to Sikh community, the Massacre of 1984.”
Chugh highlighted the welfare programs and development initiatives led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as significant milestones for the Sikh community.
“Over the past decade, the Modi government has undertaken several key initiatives to celebrate Sikhism’s values and promote Sikh welfare. These include commemorating major events such as the 400th Prakash Parv of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, the 550th Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and the 350th Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The government’s commitment to Sikhism is evident through measures like exempting GST on Langar, constructing the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, and designating Sultanpur Lodhi as a heritage city. The establishment of a Guru Nanak Dev Ji chair at a British university and facilitating Sikh pilgrimages to Pakistan further demonstrate this dedication,” he further said.
He said that since 2014, Prime Minister Modi has also promoted cooperative federalism, supporting Punjab’s development while recognising the critical role Sikhs have played in India’s growth.
“Initiatives such as ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ and ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ have celebrated Punjab’s rich cultural heritage. In addition, Modi designated December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas to honour the sacrifices of Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The approval of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor reflects the government’s sensitivity to Sikh concerns, allowing Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan,” Chugh added.
He said that under the PRASHAD scheme, 46 projects amounting to Rs. 1,629.17 crore have been sanctioned, including developments at Karuna Sagar Valmiki Sthal in Amritsar and Chamkaur Sahib in Rupnagar.
“Modi’s government has also sought justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots by establishing a Special Investigation Team (SIT), reopening 300 cases, and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Additionally, the Jallianwala Bagh memorial was restored, with financial assistance provided to 3,328 victim families. Furthermore, the Citizenship Amendment Act granted citizenship rights in India to Sikhs persecuted in Afghanistan and Pakistan, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting Sikh communities worldwide,” he further said.
Chugh criticised Rahul Gandhi’s consistent engagement with individuals and groups known for anti-national views, raising serious concerns about his alignment with forces that seek to undermine India’s unity.
He stated that Gandhi’s statements often harm national interests rather than promote constructive discourse. Chugh emphasised that the BJP remains committed to safeguarding national security and unity, which have been strengthened through decisive policies that ensure India remains united and prosperous. He said that the BJP firmly believes that India’s democracy is robust and resilient and has been strengthened under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance.
Chugh concluded, “We urge Rahul Gandhi and the Congress to engage in constructive dialogue that addresses real issues rather than propagating false narratives that seek to divide the nation. Our government remains committed to the welfare of every Indian, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion, and will continue to for the development and security of our country.” (ANI)
Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed of ANI; only the image & headline may have been reworked by News Services Division of World News Network Inc Ltd and Palghar News and Pune News and World News
HINDI, MARATHI, GUJARATI, TAMIL, TELUGU, BENGALI, KANNADA, ORIYA, PUNJABI, URDU, MALAYALAM
For more details and packages
