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Haryana Congress Leaders Seek Action Against Deepender Hooda over Sajjan Kumar Remarks
Kuldeep Sharma says Hooda’s remarks on Sajjan Kumar reopened Sikh community wounds and gave rivals fresh ammunition against the Congress, which faces elections in Punjab.
On Sunday, Senior Haryana Congress leader Kuldeep Sharma wrote to party president Mallikarjun Kharge seeking the removal of Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda from the Congress Working Committee for remarks extolling Sajjan Kumar.
Hooda had described the death of Sajjan Kumar, who died at 80 on Thursday, as an 'irreparable loss,' sparking backlash for praising a figure convicted in 1984 anti-Sikh riot cases.
Former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi condemned the comments, while opposition parties including the BJP, SAD, and AAP criticized the Congress for its perceived 'anti-Sikh mindset' regarding the controversy.
Addressing the backlash on Sunday, Hooda denied using the term 'role model,' claiming his statement was distorted by political opponents, though he expressed regret if his words hurt the Sikh community.
Sharma warned the controversy could weaken the Congress in upcoming Punjab elections, as the Sikh community—crucial to the party's prospects—might have 'afterthoughts' about supporting the party after these remarks.