Delhi Assembly objects to FIR by Punjab Police on Atishi video, seeks explanation

The Delhi Assembly on Saturday expressed grave concern over the registration of an FIR by the Punjab Police in connection with an allegedly doctored video clip of the Delhi Assembly proceedings dated January 6, asserting that the matter falls exclusively within the domain of the privileged House.

According to official communication from the Assembly Secretariat, an explanation has been sought from the Punjab Police regarding the registration of the FIR, as the issue has already been referred to the Committee of Privileges of the Delhi Assembly.

This follows a media statement issued on Friday evening by the Jalandhar Police, which clarified that Atishi, Leader of Opposition, had not uttered the word “gurus” and that the FIR was registered over the “deliberate doctoring of the video.”

The Speaker noted that the House is already seized of the issue concerning Atishi’s statement, which allegedly contained remarks against the Sikh Gurus.

“The matter has been formally referred to the Committee of Privileges of the Delhi Assembly. Additionally, on the request of Opposition members, the same video clip has already been sent for forensic examination through the Assembly’s own process,” the communication stated.

In this context, the Assembly objected to what it termed as interference by the Punjab Police, stressing that proceedings of the House are privileged and constitute its property. Any complaint or action related to Assembly proceedings must be brought to the notice of the Speaker before any external authority takes steps.

Taking cognisance of the issue, the Speaker directed that an explanation be sought from the Punjab Police on how it proceeded in a matter under the Assembly’s consideration. The authority has been asked to submit a written explanation along with all relevant documents, including the complaint, FIR, and forensic laboratory report.

The explanation has been requested within 48 hours, on or before January 12, failing which further action may be considered.