BJP’s Sukant Majumdar apologises for slipper-shaped cutout hitting Sikh officer’s turban during protest

West Bengal BJP president Sukant Majumdar has publicly apologised for an incident that triggered widespread outrage in the Sikh community. The controversy arose after a slipper-shaped placard thrown during a BJP protest on June 12 allegedly landed on the turban of a Sikh CISF officer near Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's residence in Kalighat.

As videos of the incident went viral, several gurudwaras across Bengal filed FIRs against Majumdar, demanding an immediate apology for what they termed an “insult to religious sentiments.” Initially calling the controversy a political conspiracy, Majumdar has now issued a formal apology on social media.

In his statement on ‘X’, Majumdar wrote, “In a moment of excitement, a placard thrown towards the police accidentally fell on the sacred turban of a Sikh CISF officer. If this unintentional incident has hurt the religious sentiments of any Sikh brother or sister, I humbly apologise.” He reaffirmed his and his party’s deep respect for the Sikh faith, the dignity of the turban, and the community’s legacy.

The apology comes after mounting pressure and protest from community leaders and political opponents, with calls for accountability and restraint in public demonstrations.