Channi’s ‘bhaiya’ remark triggers war of words

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday courted controversy during a poll rally by asking people not to let the “bhaiyas” of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Delhi enter the state, a remark apparently aimed at AAP leaders. The word “bhaiyas” in reference to people from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar is generally considered offensive.

In a video circulating on social media, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was seen beside Channi clapping when he made the remarks during a roadshow in Rupnagar. 

“Priyanka Gandhi is the daughter-in-law of Punjab. Will not let the ‘Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi de bhaiye’, who have come here to rule, enter the state,” the incumbent chief minister of Punjab said.

AAP national convener and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed his Punjab counterpart’s comments “very shameful”. “We strongly condemn the wrong comments made against any individual or any particular community,” he said, adding, Channi had earlier taunted him over his skin complexion, calling him ‘kala (dark)’. — PTI