BJP Leaders Swift to Apologize After Controversial Rally Slogans

The BJP leaders in Himachal Pradesh, including party president Rajiv Bindal and opposition leader Jairam Thakur, have publicly apologized for slogans perceived as offensive during a recent rally. The slogans were directed at Poanta Sub-Divisional Magistrate Gunjeet Singh Cheema, sparking anger among the Sikh community.

The backlash emerged after the rally criticized Cheema amid tensions from an earlier stone-pelting incident tied to interfaith elopement. The Sikh community issued an ultimatum demanding a public apology, which prompted Bindal and Thakur to express their regrets on social media.

Political tension heightened as Congress leaders criticized the BJP's actions for inciting communal disharmony, with public protests against Thakur. The local administration condemned the rally's slogans as an irresponsible act undermining communal peace.

(With inputs from agencies.)