NEW DELHI: Seeking an apology from Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his statements against the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, many refugees, both Hindus and Sikhs, staged a protest near the CM’s official residence on Thursday. Thousands of Hindu and Sikh refugees from Pakistan and Afghanistan reside in the city.
Carrying placards and raising slogans, the refugees demanded an immediate apology from the CM saying that his statement was wrong and against the Hindu community.
Kejriwal alleged that the BJP wants to settle poor people hailing from minority communities in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in the country through the CAA to create a vote bank for itself.
He added that those coming from Pakistan and Bangladesh and settling here will be given jobs and houses, which will affect the locals. Kejriwal also expressed concern that millions of people coming from neighbouring countries might lead to an employment crisis for the local population.
To prevent the protesters from reaching the CM’s residence, the Delhi Police placed multiple layers of barricades as the refugees did not have permission to protest. However, they assembled near the Chandgiram Akhara and attempted to march towards Kejriwal’s bungalow but were stopped by the police. Meanwhile, Kejriwal condemned the protest, saying that the BJP now stands with Pakistanis and has betrayed India.
“Today some Pakistanis demonstrated and created a ruckus in front of my house. Delhi Police gave them full respect and protection. BJP too supported them. They have gained so much courage that after illegally entering India, they are asking a CM, elected by the people of Delhi with an overwhelming majority, to tender an apology?” Kejriwal questioned.