New Delhi: BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri on Saturday appeared before Akal Takht and personally apologised to acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj over his visit to the residence of former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar.
Bidhuri had sent a written apology to the acting Jathedar in September. He appeared before Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj at the Akal Takht Secretariat on Saturday and sought forgiveness.
The issue arose after Bidhuri and two other BJP MPs visited Sajjan Kumar’s residence in August to offer condolences following his death. Sikh organisations had objected to the visit. In his earlier written explanation, Bidhuri described the visit as a mistake.
Bidhuri said he had gone to the residence at the request of his colleagues and that there was no intention to hurt Sikh sentiments. He also said he had sought action against those accused in the 1984 riots.
Shiromani Akali Dal Delhi unit president Paramjit Singh Sarna was also present at the Akal Takht Secretariat during the meeting.
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said it was a positive step that Bidhuri had recognised his mistake and personally sought forgiveness from Akal Takht. He added that several other political leaders, particularly those associated with the Congress, had also visited Sajjan Kumar’s residence and said they should similarly acknowledge their mistake and apologise to the Sikh community.
