Hooda denies calling Sajjan Kumar 'role model' after backlash

Rohtak Congress MP Deepender Hooda has denied using the phrase "role model" to describe former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar, who died recently while serving life sentences for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Hooda's initial remarks on Kumar's death, calling it a "loss to the country's political landscape" and praising his "connect with people and contribution to Delhi's development," sparked significant criticism.

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I did not use the words, nor did I harbour any such sentiment.

Senior Congress leaders and political parties, including the SAD, BJP, and AAP in Punjab, accused the Congress of having an "anti-Sikh mindset." Kuldeep Sharma, a senior Haryana Congress leader, even wrote to party president Mallikarjun Kharge seeking Hooda's removal from the Congress Working Committee (CWC).

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These words are being put in my mouth by those who wish to play politics by undermining the spirit of brotherhood. I had no intention of hurting anyone; those who know me are aware that I never harboured any intent to cause hurt to anyone.

Responding to the backlash, Hooda stated in Gurugram that he did not use the words "role model" and did not harbor such sentiments. He accused others of putting words in his mouth to undermine brotherhood and insisted he never intended to hurt anyone. He later posted a video on X, clarifying that his statement was being distorted and presented out of context. He reiterated that he never uttered the phrase or intended such a meaning.

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For the past two days, I have observed that my statement is being distorted and presented out of context. An English word – 'role model' – is being attributed to me, which I never uttered, nor did I ever intend to convey any such meaning.

Expressing regret if anyone's feelings were hurt, Hooda emphasized his deep respect for the Sikh community, calling them family and a glorious part of the nation. He highlighted their sacrifices for the country, from defending borders to the struggle for independence, and affirmed the strong, brotherly bond shared with the community. Hooda concluded the video with a Sikh religious salutation, "Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh."

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Nevertheless, the Sikh community is like family to us. If anyone's feelings have been hurt, I express my regret as your brother. My intention or objective was never to cause anyone pain.