– Shabana Javed
Kolkata, Feb. 22: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed strong displeasure over calling a Sikh police officer Khalistani.
She wondered, “If a police officer is called Khalistani for wearing a turban, will a Muslim police officer be called a Pakistani?”
Chief Minister expressed surprise at the targeting of people on the basis of religious affiliation. She said such things are unacceptable.
Speaking at an event here, Mamata Banerjee addressed the issue, questioning, “What was the fault of the officer on duty? Is there no Sikh regiment in the force? We respect all religions. If an officer wears a turban, how can you call him Khalistani? If you see a Muslim officer, you call him Pakistani. A few people are now engaging in this. They are the biggest stigma in Bengal, they’re maligning Bengal’s reputation.”
“There are Muslim IAS, IPS, and WBCS officers; how can you call them Pakistani just because they are Muslim?” she added.
After an argument with a police officer during Sandeshkhali’s visit, a BJP leader called the officer Khalistani. There is a strong protest by the Sikhs across Bengal.
A group of Sikh delegation also met with the state governor. The Bengal Police announced their intention to take legal action in this matter.
The Chief Minister also criticized the Union Government on the Aadhar card issue, saying that the way the Aadhar card is being deactivated, she fears that the government will implement NRC under its guise. There is a conspiracy to establish detection camps and to implement NRC. “The work has started,” she said.
