Chandigarh: Congress Member of Parliament from Rohtak Deepender Singh Hooda issued a detailed clarification on Sunday regarding his recent statements on late Congress leader Sajjan Kumar, following widespread political controversy and sharp criticism from various political and community organisations. Addressing the media, Hooda categorically rejected claims that he had ever referred to Kumar as a “role model,” asserting that the phrase was falsely attributed to him by political detractors aiming to engineer unnecessary controversy.
The backlash stemmed from Hooda’s earlier condolence remarks following the death of Kumar on August 20, who had been serving a life sentence for his involvement in the 1984 anti-Sikh violence. During his initial comments, Hooda had acknowledged Kumar’s political influence across northern India and his grassroots public engagement, describing his passing as an irreparable loss to the political landscape. These remarks prompted swift condemnation from political rivals, including the Aam Aadmi Party, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Shiromani Akali Dal, especially within Punjab.
Responding to the criticism, Hooda expressed deep regret and offered an unconditional apology if his words had inadvertently hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community. Reaffirming his family’s long-standing stance, he stated that the 1984 riots represented a grave injustice and maintained that all perpetrators responsible for the bloodshed must be awarded the strictest possible punishment. He reiterated that his bond with the Sikh community is rooted in deep respect and shared history, adding that justice for the victims remains a non-negotiable priority.
