AAP Protests Alleged ‘Doctored’ Video, Demands Apology From Kapil Mishra
A political controversy has erupted in Delhi after the Aam Aadmi Party accused the BJP of circulating a manipulated video that allegedly disrespects Sikh Gurus. The issue led to protests, detentions, police action, and sharp exchanges between leaders of both parties, bringing religion, politics, and governance into the spotlight.
On Sunday, several AAP leaders and supporters were detained while protesting outside the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. The protest was led by Delhi AAP unit chief Saurabh Bhardwaj, with party leaders demanding a public apology from BJP leader and minister Kapil Mishra and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
What Triggered the Controversy
Allegations of a Manipulated Video
The controversy began after BJP leaders, including Kapil Mishra, shared a video clip on social media that allegedly showed former Delhi chief minister Atishi making derogatory remarks about the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, during a recent debate in the Delhi Assembly.
AAP leaders strongly denied the allegation, claiming the video was edited and misleading. According to the party, Atishi never mentioned Guru Tegh Bahadur in her speech, and false subtitles were added to the clip to create controversy and hurt religious sentiments.
AAP’s Protest Outside BJP Headquarters
Leaders Detained by Police
AAP leaders and supporters gathered near the BJP office in Delhi to protest against what they called “dirty politics” and deliberate misinformation. As the protest intensified, police detained several AAP leaders and MLAs to prevent the demonstration from escalating.
The party demanded that Kapil Mishra apologise publicly for sharing what they described as a fake video. They also demanded an apology from Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accusing the BJP of remaining silent on the issue.
Sanjeev Jha Accuses BJP of Political Diversion
“Trying to Hide Governance Failures”
AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha accused the BJP of using the controversy to divert public attention from real governance issues in Delhi.
He said the BJP created and circulated the fake video to avoid answering questions on pollution, public services, and other problems faced by residents of the capital. According to Jha, using the name of a Sikh Guru for political gain was unacceptable and deeply hurtful.
He added that people would not forgive what he called an insult to Guru Tegh Bahadur and insisted that BJP leaders must apologise without delay.
BJP’s Allegation Against Atishi
Claims Linked to Assembly Debate
BJP leaders alleged that Atishi insulted Guru Tegh Bahadur while speaking during a discussion related to a Delhi government programme held last November. The programme marked the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Sikh Guru.
The BJP claimed that Atishi’s remarks were offensive and demanded accountability. However, AAP leaders said the accusation was completely false and based on a manipulated video clip.
Atishi Responds to the Allegations
“I Would Rather Die Than Insult the Guru”
Atishi strongly denied the allegations and accused the BJP of dragging religion into politics for petty gains. In a video message shared on social media, she clarified that she was speaking about BJP protests in the Delhi Assembly related to pollution and stray dogs.
She said the BJP deliberately added misleading subtitles to the video to falsely link her words to Guru Tegh Bahadur. According to Atishi, the Guru’s name was never mentioned in her original speech.
She also spoke about her personal faith, stating that her family has followed Sikh traditions for generations. She said she would rather die than insult Guru Sahib, calling the allegations deeply painful and offensive.
FIR Registered Over Circulation of Video
Police Action in Punjab
The controversy took a legal turn when the Jalandhar Police Commissionerate registered an FIR on Friday over the uploading and circulation of the alleged doctored video.
The case was registered following complaints that the video was edited to provoke religious sentiments and spread misinformation. The police are expected to investigate who edited and circulated the clip and whether any laws were violated.
Punjab Chief Minister Reacts
Accuses BJP of Provoking Religious Sentiments
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also weighed in on the issue, accusing the BJP of deliberately twisting Atishi’s remarks to provoke religious sentiments.
In a social media post, Mann said Atishi never made any comment disrespecting Guru Tegh Bahadur. He accused the BJP of showing an “anti-Punjab and anti-Sikh” mindset by falsely linking her words to the Sikh Guru.
According to Mann, using religion as a political weapon damages social harmony and should be strongly condemned.
Why the Issue Has Sparked Strong Reactions
Sensitivity Around Religious Figures
Guru Tegh Bahadur holds immense significance for the Sikh community as the ninth Guru and a symbol of sacrifice and religious freedom. Any perceived disrespect towards Sikh Gurus often leads to strong emotional and political reactions.
AAP leaders argue that falsely linking a political speech to a revered religious figure crosses a line and risks inflaming communal tensions. This, they say, is why the issue has resonated beyond Delhi and drawn reactions from Punjab as well.
Political Tensions Ahead of Key Battles
A Charged Atmosphere in Delhi Politics
The controversy comes at a time when political tensions are already high in Delhi. Both AAP and BJP are locked in frequent confrontations over governance, law and order, pollution, and public services.
AAP claims the BJP is using religion to distract voters from real issues, while the BJP maintains that its allegations are valid. With police cases, protests, and strong statements from leaders on both sides, the issue is likely to remain in the spotlight.
What Happens Next
Apology Demands and Legal Proceedings
AAP continues to demand a public apology from Kapil Mishra and other BJP leaders. The party has also called for accountability from those responsible for editing and sharing the video.
Meanwhile, the FIR registered in Punjab could lead to further developments as investigators examine the origin and spread of the clip. Political reactions are expected to continue as both parties try to shape public opinion.
Politics, Faith, and Responsibility
The controversy highlights how quickly political disputes can turn sensitive when religion is involved. While AAP insists the video was manipulated and meant to mislead, the BJP stands by its claims, deepening the divide.
As investigations continue and protests persist, the episode serves as a reminder of the responsibility political leaders carry when speaking about faith, history, and public figures. In a diverse country like India, even a single edited clip can spark widespread outrage and political fallout.
