Ravneet Singh Bittu, the Minister of State for Railways, has caused a stir with a controversial statement regarding Narayan Singh Chaura, who attacked Akali leader Sukhbir Badal. Descendant of the late Chief Minister Beant Singh, Bittu suggested recognizing Chaura as a 'gem of the community.' He appealed to Akali Dal or SGPC for legal aid and support for Narayan Singh Chaura. While he condemned the shooting incident involving Sukhbir Badal, Akali leader Bikram Majithia strongly reacted to Bittu's statement, describing him as mentally unstable.
Appeal to Honor with Title 'Gem of the Community'
During a conversation with journalists in Delhi, Central Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu urged Shiromani Akali Dal to honor Narayan Singh Chaura with the title 'gem of the community.' Bittu advocated for a picture of Chaura to be displayed in the Golden Temple museum and for providing him legal support in his ongoing case. Bittu described Chaura's acts as religiously motivated rather than personal revenge. He referred to the incident as a reaction to Sukhbir Badal's alleged admissions of sacrilege, forgiveness granted to Dera Sacha Sauda, and misuse of funds belonging to the Golden Temple.
Bittu stated, 'The senior citizen Narayan Singh Chaura did not act against Sukhbir Singh Badal out of personal vendetta but rather as a response to the desecration issue.' 'Although the bullet missed its mark, striking the wall instead, the act reflects an emotional outcry connected to religious sentiments.'
Urging Empathy Towards Chaura
Bittu appealed, 'Even as children during the assassination of S. Beant Singh, our family supported the call for Rajona's release.' 'Now, the Akali Dal should exhibit the same understanding towards Chaura's actions.' Bittu urged Akali Dal to show compassion towards Chaura, stating 'SAD should provide him with legal support, good food, and clothing, ensuring that his contributions are remembered by the Sikh community.'
Highlighting parallels, Bittu remarked 'When our grandfather was murdered, 17 lives were lost alongside S. Beant Singh, leaving families orphaned. SAD has honored individuals for such instances at the Golden Temple. It's now their turn to repay by supporting Chaura generously.' Bittu called upon Sukhbir Singh Badal and the Akali Dal to demonstrate and honor their commitment to Sikh values.
Bikram Majithia Describes as Mentally Unstable
Conversely, Bikram Majithia struck back at Ravneet Bittu, labeling him as mentally unstable, attributing it to his defection from Congress to the saffron party. He questioned BJP if this was Bittu's statement or if he was speaking under the influence of an ISI agent. A person found with RDX is an ISI agent and a Khalistan sympathizer. Is this Bittu's viewpoint or BJP's?
Shortly after the incident, BJP state chief Sunil Jakhar condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with Akali Dal leaders.
