Delhi Assembly in Uproar as BJP, AAP Accuse Each Other of Insulting Guru Tegh Bahadur
The Delhi Assembly witnessed chaotic scenes on Thursday (January 8, 2026) after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) traded sharp accusations over alleged remarks concerning Guru Tegh Bahadur. Repeated disruptions forced multiple adjournments, with members from both sides entering the well of the House in protest.
Following the ruckus, Speaker Vijender Gupta referred the matter to the Committee of Privileges of the Delhi Assembly, signalling a formal probe into the controversy.
What Triggered the Row
The controversy stems from allegations by the BJP that Atishi, senior AAP leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP), made remarks in the House on January 6 that allegedly insulted Guru Tegh Bahadur. On Wednesday, the BJP demanded the cancellation of Atishi’s Assembly membership, calling her comments unacceptable and hurtful to religious sentiments.
AAP strongly rejected the allegations and accused the BJP of politicising the issue. On Thursday, the party countered by alleging that Delhi Law Minister Kapil Mishra had circulated an “edited and fake” video of Atishi’s speech on social media.
Counter-Accusations and Protests
AAP leaders claimed that sharing the allegedly doctored video amounted to an insult to Guru Tegh Bahadur and demanded Kapil Mishra’s suspension, along with action against all MLAs who reposted the clip.
As tempers flared, the House was adjourned twice during the day, with sloganeering and protests from both ruling and opposition benches. Proceedings could not continue smoothly as members refused to back down.
Forensic Investigation Ordered
Responding to the impasse, Speaker Vijender Gupta announced that the disputed video would be sent for forensic examination to determine whether it had been edited or manipulated. He said a forensic report would be submitted within 15 days.
The Speaker also requested Atishi to appear before the House and present her version of events, stressing the need for due process and factual clarity before any conclusions are drawn.
Political Implications
The episode adds to the growing political friction in Delhi, where sharp exchanges between the BJP and AAP have increasingly disrupted legislative functioning. With religious sentiments involved, the issue has also drawn public attention beyond the Assembly.
The findings of the Committee of Privileges and the forensic report are expected to play a crucial role in determining accountability and the next course of action.
Our Thoughts
The Delhi Assembly uproar highlights how quickly sensitive religious issues can escalate into full-blown political confrontations. While accountability is essential, the emphasis must remain on facts, transparency, and restraint. Allowing forensic जांच and institutional processes to run their course is the only way to ensure credibility and prevent further erosion of legislative decorum.