Govt puts up poster seeking Atishi’s reply

New Delhi: The Delhi government on Tuesday put up posters targeting Leader of Opposition Atishi, asking “Where is Atishi Marlena?”, over remarks allegedly made during a discussion in the Delhi Assembly earlier this month. The issue relates to the January 6 Assembly sitting, when members were discussing the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, Bhai Mati Das Ji and Bhai Dayala Ji. Addressing a press conference at the Delhi Secretariat, Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra alleged that objectionable language was used during the debate, hurting religious sentiments and undermining the dignity of the House. He described the matter as serious and said it should not be treated lightly.

“During a discussion to honour the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and other Sikh martyrs, extremely objectionable words were used inside the Assembly,” Mishra said. He claimed that the remarks amounted to sacrilege and alleged that Atishi had avoided appearing before the Assembly or the media since then. “The manner in which Atishi Marlena has disappeared after this incident makes it clear that this was done deliberately,” he said.

Mishra also alleged misuse of Punjab government machinery in the matter. “At the behest of Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab government resources and Punjab Police are being misused to suppress this issue and intimidate people through false cases,” he said, urging Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann not to be “a partner in this sin”. The minister

said the Speaker had repeatedly asked the Leader of Opposition to clarify her position in the House.