Hooda’s Remarks on Sajjan Kumar Trigger Sikh Protest Outside Rahul Gandhi’s Residence

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Aug.23, 2026: Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda’s remarks mourning the death of 1984 anti-Sikh riots convict Sajjan Kumar have sparked controversy, with Sikh leaders and victims’ families staging a protest outside Rahul Gandhi’s residence on Saturday.

Led by Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) president Harmeet Singh Kalka and general secretary Jagdeep Singh Kahlon, protesters gathered outside Rahul Gandhi’s residence on Sunehri Bagh Road, raising slogans against the Congress and burning an effigy of Rahul Gandhi.

The protest followed Hooda’s remarks describing Kumar’s death as a major loss and praising his contribution to Delhi and his connection with people.

DSGMC leaders demanded that Rahul Gandhi clarify whether Sajjan Kumar was considered a “hero” by the Congress and sought an apology to the Sikh community. They said the remarks had reopened the wounds of families affected by the 1984 violence.

The comments also drew criticism from within the Congress. Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Warring said Hooda’s statement was his personal view and described the 1984 anti-Sikh riots as a massive tragedy whose wounds remain.

Senior Congress leader and former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi also strongly condemned Kumar, saying he was convicted for crimes against the Sikh community and should not be portrayed as a role model.

The BJP, AAP and Shiromani Akali Dal had earlier criticised Hooda’s remarks, accusing him of hurting the sentiments of victims and their families.