A Sikh IPS officer was allegedly labelled a "Khalistani" by a BJP leader on Monday for stopping their rally due to prohibitory orders of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code at Sandeshkhali. The island, located in North 24 Parganas district, gained attention due to BJP's accusations of sexual violence involving Trinamool leaders and numerous reports of women claiming harassment and extortion.
A video of the incident which went viral on social media showed SSP (IB) Jaspreet Singh, a 2016-batch IPS officer, standing in front of BJP leaders, including MLA Agnimitra Paul, and responding angrily after being called a “Khalistani”.
He asked them not to indulge in typecasting people and to leave his faith alone.
The police officer said, “I will take action on this. Just because I am wearing a turban, you assumed I am a Khalistani? You cannot say anything about my religion. Has anybody said anything about your religion? Then why did you comment on my religion?”
He then told MLA Paul: “Nobody is making any comments on religion, only you are making. If any police person is wearing a turban, are they assumed as Khalistani?… I’m not discussing your faith; don’t bring up mine either. How dare you label me a Khalistani! Is this your level?”
The Chief Minister of the state reacted to the incident stating: “Today, the BJP’s divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. As per @BJP4India every person wearing a turban is a Khalistani. I vehemently condemn this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our Sikh brothers & sisters, revered for their sacrifices and unwavering determination to our nation. We stand firm in protecting Bengal’s social harmony and will take stern lawful measures to prevent any attempts to disrupt it.”
A Sikh community organisation also protested in front of the BJP state office in Kolkata.
However, the BJP has refuted the Allegations.