Chandigarh, Oct 23: Aam Aadmi Party MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal launched a scathing critique against the central leadership, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party of harboring ongoing animosity toward Punjabis and Sikhs. Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, Dhaliwal pointed to a series of controversies—including the alleged public disrespect of singer Daler Mehndi in Uttarakhand, the forced hurdles surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s Delhi concert dates, and the handling of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann at Delhi airport.
Dhaliwal specifically highlighted the logistical roadblocks placed against global music icon Diljit Dosanjh, noting that after initially clearing a November date, organizers faced sudden demands for rescheduling before ultimate clearance denial for an October 30 performance. The legislator argued that targeting internationally celebrated artists who carry Punjab’s rich culture to global audiences reflects a narrow and discriminatory political mindset within the ruling central administration.
Furthermore, Dhaliwal condemned the treatment of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann upon his return from France, where officials subjected him to baggage checks in Delhi under the pretext of excess weight. Dhaliwal questioned why such issues were not handled at the foreign departure airport, suggesting the intervention was politically motivated to humiliate a leader who continuously defends state rights. He warned that persistent mistreatment of Punjab’s identity and elected figures will carry serious political consequences.
