Atishi Accuses BJP of Plot to Demolish Temples, BJP Calls It Communal Politics

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 1st Jan. In a heated political faceoff ahead of the Delhi Assembly polls, Chief Minister Atishi on Wednesday accused the BJP of planning to demolish six religious structures, including Hindu temples and a Buddhist site, in various parts of the city. The BJP refuted the allegations, terming them a bid to “disturb communal harmony.”

Atishi claimed the Religious Committee, chaired by the Lieutenant Governor (LG), ordered the demolition during its November 22 meeting. She alleged the LG had approved the decision, with preparations underway for the demolition in areas like West Patel Nagar, Dilshad Garden, and Sunder Nagri.

The LG’s office denied the allegations, calling them “cheap politics,” and stated no such file had been approved. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva demanded Atishi withdraw her statement, accusing her of inciting tensions.

Sachdeva reminded citizens of alleged communal disturbances linked to AAP’s 2020 election strategies, asserting the current claims were a repeat tactic. He also asked Atishi to clarify if her government’s home department made such recommendations.

Atishi, however, maintained that the BJP, which portrays itself as a defender of Hindus, is secretly orchestrating the demolition. She urged the LG to withdraw the demolition order, accusing the BJP of hypocrisy.

The controversy has added to the intense political rivalry between the BJP and AAP, with religious and communal issues taking center stage.