Amritsar: The BJP on Monday censured Simranjit Singh Mann, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), for suggesting that Pakistan should be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize for its purported role in facilitating a truce between the United States and Iran.Punjab BJP spokesperson Sarchand Singh termed Mann’s statement as “deeply irresponsible and anti-national”. He said such advocacy undermined the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and strengthened narratives hostile to India.“Punjab will never accept those who promote the ISI’s Khalistani narrative,” said Sarchand Singh, adding that praising Pakistan’s military leadership was an insult to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives defending the nation’s unity and borders.He alleged that such statements amount to “rubbing salt into the wounds” of families affected by terrorism and those battling Pakistan-sponsored threats, including drugs and cross-border militancy.During a recent press conference, Simranjit Singh Mann opined that Pakistan should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to bring the warring USA and Iran to the negotiating table and help strike a truce between them. The remarks triggered sharp political reactions.Sarchand Singh questioned Mann’s intent, stating that while India’s democratic framework guarantees freedom of expression, it cannot be misused to advance narratives that weaken national integrity.“The Constitution gives the right to speak, but not to glorify forces responsible for terrorism, infiltration and instability,” said the BJP spokesperson.Sarchand Singh also accused Pakistan’s military establishment of waging a proxy war against India through terrorism, smuggling of narcotics and weapons, and the use of drones along the Punjab border.He said the Nobel Peace Prize symbolised global peace and humanity and “cannot be associated with forces linked to violence and destabilisation”.MSID:: 130553171 413 |
