A heated confrontation broke out in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik made controversial remarks that were seen as offensive toward the Hindu community. The situation escalated quickly, prompting an uproar from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members and forcing an adjournment of the House proceedings.

Malik, the sole AAP legislator in the assembly, accused Hindus of engaging in unethical behaviour while performing religious rituals. "Hindu tilak laga ke paap karta hai, chori karta hai, sharab peeta hai," Malik said, which translates to, "A Hindu commits sins while wearing a tilak, steals, and drinks alcohol."

BJP Protests, Accuses Malik of Insulting Hindu Sentiments

The remarks triggered immediate backlash from BJP legislators, who rose in protest and demanded action against Malik for what they called an abuse of religious sentiments. BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa voiced strong objections, stating, “He has abused Hindus, we will not tolerate this, we will give him an answer.”

As tensions rose, the atmosphere in the assembly grew chaotic, with physical scuffles reported between members. Amid the commotion, Malik defended himself by lashing out at his critics. “He tells me that I do not have respect, what does he know?” he responded, alleging that BJP legislators had also physically assaulted him during the confrontation.

Repeat Offense Raises Further Controversy

This is not the first time the AAP MLA has faced criticism over statements perceived as anti-Hindu. Just last month, Malik made similarly controversial comments during a media interaction, claiming that Hindus are reluctant to shut down liquor outlets due to a cultural attachment to alcohol consumption. “Hindus will not close down liquor shops because they drink during festivals and marriages too. They are addicted to it,” he said, a remark that sparked demonstrations from Hindu groups across the region.

Ongoing Tensions Amid Demands for Accountability

The series of comments by Malik has heightened communal sensitivities and intensified political friction in the Union Territory. BJP leaders have called for strict action and accountability, while AAP has yet to release an official statement addressing the incident.

As the assembly awaits its next session, political observers remain focused on whether further disciplinary action will be taken and how these developments will influence the region's already tense political environment.