Former Punjab CM Bhattal Breaks Silence, Denies Allegations on ‘Blast’ Remarks; Cites Confidentiality, Reaffirms Congress Loyalty
Baljit Balli
Chandigarh, January 31, 2026:
Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal on Friday broke her silence over the controversy surrounding her recent remarks about a blast-related suggestion during her tenure in the 1990s, categorically denying allegations that she ever endorsed or permitted violence. She said many sensitive matters from that period remain bound by official oaths and confidentiality protocols, and clarified that her reference to a decades-old episode was meant solely as a lesson from history to ensure present-day security in Punjab.
Issuing a detailed clarification, Bhattal asserted that she had firmly and immediately rejected any advice that involved creating panic or allowing blasts, stressing that no incident of violence occurred under her leadership. She said her comments during an interview were misinterpreted and were never intended to target specific individuals or political opponents.
“Many important matters from that period are bound by confidentiality due to official oaths and protocols,” Bhattal said, adding that she cited the old example only to urge current leaders to learn from the past and take timely preventive steps to safeguard the state.
Reaffirming her political commitment, Bhattal emphasized her lifelong association with the Congress party, stating that she remains a dedicated party member who has consistently worked for Punjab’s development and stability, not for personal or political gain.
Her clarification comes amid a political storm triggered by her statement that, during her tenure nearly three decades ago, she had been advised by certain officials to allow blasts to create panic ahead of elections—a suggestion she said she rejected unconditionally, declaring she “would not rule on dead bodies.”
The remarks drew sharp reactions from opposition parties, particularly the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which accused the Congress leadership of silence on the issue and demanded greater clarity and accountability. AAP leaders described the claim as disturbing in view of Punjab’s traumatic history of violence and urged Bhattal to name those she had referred to if her statement was to carry credibility.