Charanjit Channi objects to Sajjan Kumar being called a ‘role model’, says 1984 victims’ wounds still fresh
Former Punjab CM says those accused of serious crimes against Sikhs cannot be presented as role models
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 22, 2026: Former Punjab Chief Minister and Congress Working Committee member Charanjit Singh Channi has strongly objected to Haryana Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda reportedly describing Sajjan Kumar, an accused in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases, as a “role model”.
Channi said a person associated with allegations of involvement in the 1984 anti-Sikh violence could not be projected as a role model for the Sikh community.
Reacting to Hooda's remarks, Channi said it was highly objectionable to describe as role models individuals accused of serious crimes against the Sikh community, particularly when the families of victims had suffered for decades.
He said the wounds of the 1984 anti-Sikh violence remained fresh in the memories of victim families and that statements of this nature could hurt their sentiments.
Channi maintained that those accused of serious crimes should face the judicial process and, if found guilty, receive punishment in accordance with law. He also advised political leaders to exercise caution while making statements on sensitive issues involving the victims of the 1984 violence.
The remarks come amid renewed political debate over the legacy of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and the treatment of individuals accused in cases related to the violence.