Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh contradicts mother’s ‘not Khalistani supporter’ remark

GS Paul

Amritsar, July 7

Days after taking oath in Parliament, jailed Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh issued a statement which contradicts his mother Balwinder Kaur’s remark that he was not a supporter of ‘Khalistan’.

On July 5, Balwinder, interacting with mediapersons, said, “He (Amritpal) is not a supporter of Khalistan. Does speaking about Punjab or saving the youngsters make him a Khalistani supporter? He contested the election within the purview of the Constitution and still he is being tagged as Khalistani.”

Detained under the National Security Act in Assam’s Dibrugarh jail, Amritpal’s letter surfaced on X.

“I am saddened by Mataji’s statement. Though these remarks were made unknowingly, such a statement should have never come from my family or from anyone who supports me. Dreaming of Khalsa Raj is not a crime but a matter of pride. If I have to choose between Panth (religion) and family, I will select Panth,” reads the letter.

Amritpal’s father Tarsem Singh, who authenticated the letter, said, “We are not very much aware of its political aspect. I have read this letter, which is on X. His supporters or team members may have uploaded it. But looking at the content, I believe it is genuine. It is referring to Amritpal’s vision of establishing a ‘Sikh Raj’ on the lines of Maharaja Ranjit Singh where all were equal irrespective of their caste, creed or race. We can clarify more only after meeting him in the jail.”

Amritpal’s parents on Sunday met Takht Damdama Sahib Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh at Manji Sahib Diwan Hall in Golden Temple complex.

The Jathedar said, “Sikh detainees are being discriminated. It is a pity that the Sikhs were being honoured in British Parliament but Amritpal, who got a thumping mandate, was released on parole to take oath as MP.”