The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders strongly condemned the derogatory remarks made by Khalistani supporter Gurpatwant Pannun about the Constitution's architect, Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. The AAP leaders stated that Pannun is making such statements to disrupt Punjab's harmony, but he will not succeed.
On Friday, AAP MLAs Rupinder Singh Happy and Lakhbir Singh Rai addressed a press conference with local party leaders in Fatehgarh Sahib and launched a sharp counterattack on Pannun’s statement. Addressing the media, MLA Rupinder Singh Happy said that Pannun’s remarks are extremely condemnable.
He emphasized that Punjab is the land of Gurus and Saints, where there is no place for talks of hatred and violence. “Our Gurus have always spoken for humanity and have considered all people as equals. Pannun lacks knowledge of Sikhism; that is why he is making such vile statements,” he added.
He further stated that Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar is not just a leader of Dalits but is revered by people of all castes and religions in India. Through the Constitution, he empowered Dalits, women, minorities, and other marginalized groups. “Today, the country is governed by the same Constitution,” he said.
AAP MLA Lakhbir Singh Rai said that spreading hatred is Gurpatwant Pannu’s job. “He should not even be referred to as a Sikh. He always makes statements that defame Punjab and the Sikh faith. The people of Punjab will never accept such a person,” he said.
The AAP leader asserted, “We are not intimidated by such statements and threats. On April 14, Baba Saheb’s birth anniversary, all AAP workers and leaders across the state will protect his statues, giving a befitting reply to such anti-social elements.”
He concluded by saying, “Dr. Ambedkar is our role model, and we will firmly stand against anyone who disrespects him.”