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Dehradun: Senior Congress leader and former Uttarakhand cabinet minister Harak Singh Rawat has apologised after his alleged remarks against the Sikh community sparked widespread protests across the state. The controversy began during a lawyers’ protest in Dehradun, where Rawat was present to show solidarity.
According to eyewitnesses, Rawat allegedly made an “indecorous” comment while gesturing towards a Sikh lawyer to raise slogans. Members of the legal fraternity immediately deemed the remark socially inappropriate and offensive. The situation escalated quickly, forcing Rawat to retract his words and leave the protest site.
Immediate apology
Rawat later clarified that he had no intention of hurting the sentiments of any community. “If my words have hurt any lawyer or other member of the community, I sincerely apologise,” he said. Rawat emphasised that he had the utmost respect for Sikhs and never intended to use indecent language.
To express regret, Rawat visited the Paonta Sahib Gurdwara in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday. He offered prayers and performed seva (service) at the ‘joda ghar’ (shoe-keeping area) and the langar kitchen. He also announced that he would serve at the Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Dehradun.
Protests across Uttarakhand
Despite his apology, the uproar did not subside. A video of Rawat’s remarks circulated widely on social media, sparking anger among Sikh organisations. In Dehradun, members of the Sikh community burned his effigy at the Clock Tower and raised slogans against him.
Senior Congress leader Harish Rawat commented on the controversy, saying, “Sometimes a slip of tongue can prove very costly, and Harak Singh Rawat became the victim of one such slip.” He added that admitting a mistake was true service, and praised Harak Singh Rawat for apologising. Harish Rawat also described Sikhs as a brave and revered community, symbolising national honour, courage, and sacrifice.
Political fallout
The incident has gained political traction, with the BJP seizing the opportunity to criticise Congress. Manveer Singh Chauhan, media in-charge of Uttarakhand BJP, said Rawat’s language exposed the “hidden truth of the Congress.” He asked whether this was the new politics of Congress—“first attacking Hindus and Sikhs, then pretending to repent at gurdwaras and temples.”
Political analysts noted that such remarks undermine Congress’s message of social harmony and secularism. “These kinds of statements are damaging for Congress, especially when the party is trying to project an image of unity,” he said.
Social Media reaction
The controversy extended to social media, where Sikh organisations condemned the remark as insensitive. Many urged political leaders to maintain respect for all communities in public forums. Analysts believe that while Rawat’s apology may have calmed immediate tensions, the issue will linger in Uttarakhand’s political discourse.
Not the first time
Observers point out that this is not the first time Rawat’s statements have caused discomfort within his party. His past remarks have often drawn criticism, making him a controversial figure in Uttarakhand politics.
For now, Rawat’s apology and symbolic service at gurdwaras may help him regain some goodwill. But the incident has highlighted how even a slip of tongue can have serious political consequences, especially in a state where community harmony is deeply valued.
