New Delhi, 10 January (H.S.): Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta announced on Saturday that notices have been issued to Punjab's Director General of Police, the DGP of Cyber Cell, and Jalandhar Commissioner demanding a report within 48 hours regarding a video linked to Leader of Opposition Atishi's alleged remarks on Sikh Gurus and the FIR against a minister.

Gupta, addressing a press conference in the Assembly premises, directed Punjab Police to submit a written explanation with relevant documents, including the complaint copy, FIR copy, and forensic lab report, by January 12 or earlier. He stressed that the video from Assembly proceedings constitutes House property, over which only the Assembly holds authority, accusing Punjab Police of breaching its privilege.

The controversy stems from a video clip of January 6 Assembly proceedings, brought to the Speaker's notice during the January 9 session, leading to an FIR in Jalandhar. Gupta noted that the House is already examining Atishi's statement, allegedly containing remarks against Sikh Gurus, referred to the Privileges Committee, with the clip sent for forensic scrutiny at opposition members' request.

The Speaker expressed deep concern over Punjab Police's intervention, asserting that Assembly proceedings enjoy absolute privilege and any related issue or complaint must first come to the Chair's cognizance before action. He questioned how Punjab Police could interfere in a matter squarely within the privileged domain of the House.

Notably, Jalandhar Police registered an FIR against Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra based on the video downloaded from his X handle, claiming it was doctored to incite religious sentiments. Punjab authorities assert forensic analysis confirmed Atishi never uttered the word Guru, labeling the clip as manipulated for political gain.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar