SAD, BJP condemn incident

The SAD and the BJP on Saturday condemned the dance gig at the event held in J&K's Srinagar to commemorate Guru Teg Bahadur's 350th martyrdom day two days ago.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal accused the AAP government of committing a sacrilege against Sikh religion by “trying to convert” the event into an entertainment event”.

Holding Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and his Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains responsible, he said the event was “part of a deep-rooted conspiracy to dilute and belittle the unrivalled Sikh heritage”.

Meanwhile, BJP leader and National Commission for Minorities Chairman Iqbal Singh Lalpura accused the state government of hurting sentiments of the Sikh community.

In a press release, he said, "It is utterly shameful that during a solemn event in Srinagar, organised by the Punjab Government to commemorate the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib ji, entertainment in the form of bhangra, songs and dance was allowed, even in the presence of Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains."

“This act directly mocked the unparalleled martyrdom of Guru Sahib and constitutes a clear sacrilege,” added Lalpura.