Is Only Delhi Speaker Authorized to Investigate Atishi's Remarks?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 18 (NationPress) In response to the remarks made by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj stated on Sunday that any investigation regarding statements made in the Delhi Assembly falls under the exclusive authority of Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta.
During a press conference addressing the contentious remarks made by the Leader of the Opposition, Atishi, concerning Sikh Gurus, Swaraj asserted that in a rush to defend Atishi, the Punjab Police was improperly utilized to probe a matter that clearly did not fall within its jurisdiction.
BJP MP Swaraj emphasized that it has become a recurring issue for AAP to manipulate government resources to stifle democracy, media freedom, and any form of dissent.
“Yet, when it pertains to their own errors, their attitude exudes even more hubris,” she remarked.
On January 6, during a discussion commemorating the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, Atishi reportedly used inappropriate language regarding the Sikh Gurus. Instead of issuing an apology, she has seemingly disappeared,” stated Swaraj.
The BJP MP pointed out that the law empowers the Delhi Assembly Speaker to initiate an inquiry into any member's statements.
Following a forensic analysis of the House recordings by Speaker Gupta, it was confirmed that the contested video had not been altered in any way.
Atishi has shown disrespect towards the Sikh Gurus within the Delhi Assembly, Swaraj added.
She questioned Atishi's absence, noting, “She was missing even during the announcement of office-bearers in Goa, and she is also nowhere to be found in Punjab. For months, her constituents in Delhi have been looking for her.”
“It is astonishing that after Atishi's disparaging remarks about the Sikh Gurus on January 6, Minister Kapil Mishra tweeted on January 7, and on the same day, the Punjab Police filed an FIR against him,” Swaraj pointed out.
“What relevance does the Punjab Police have with the Delhi Assembly?” she further questioned.
The New Delhi BJP MP clarified that the truth surrounding the Jalandhar case is that it has only been filed against social media platforms.
Kapil Mishra or any other individual has not been implicated in the case. The report submitted by Speaker Vijender Gupta clearly indicates that no tampering occurred with the video, thus, Atishi should promptly issue an apology,” she concluded.