The controversy over the display of flags featuring slain militant preacher Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale on a Punjabi tourist’s vehicle in Himachal Pradesh has intensified, sparking protests against the state's authorities.
On Tuesday, activists from Dal Khalsa and Sikh Youth of Punjab (SYP) responded by pasting Bhindranwale’s posters on Himachal Pradesh government buses parked at the local bus stand and along the Chintpurni road. Several private vehicles bearing Himachal registration numbers were also targeted for the display.
The issue initially erupted in Manali when a group of youths displaying photos of Bhindranwale on their bikes faced backlash from locals. The situation escalated when some individuals reportedly tore down the flags, leading to a scuffle and public outrage.
Akal Takht’s acting Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, condemned the incident and urged Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to ensure communal harmony. He stated, “When the police stop a youth to check his vehicle documents, local elements have no right to use force against him or tear the flags.”
Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur raised the issue in the state assembly, expressing concerns over the law and order situation. Criticizing the Sukhu-led administration, he asserted that such incidents pose a serious threat to the state's stability and public safety.
Responding to the controversy, CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu assured that he would discuss the matter with Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He condemned any violence related to the incident and reaffirmed the need to maintain peace and order in the state.
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