Fri Jan 09 19:50:03 UTC 2026: # Doctored Video of AAP Leader Atishi Sparks Political Firestorm in Delhi Assembly

The Story:
A political row has erupted in Delhi following accusations that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) senior leader Atishi made insensitive remarks about Guru Tegh Bahadur during a Delhi Assembly session. The situation escalated when the Jalandhar Police Commissionerate, in AAP-ruled Punjab, filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra for allegedly uploading and circulating a doctored video of Atishi on social media. According to the Punjab police, a forensic examination suggests that Atishi did not utter the word “Guru” in the contested video.

Key Points:

  • An FIR was filed against Kapil Mishra by the Jalandhar Police Commissionerate for allegedly circulating a doctored video of Atishi.
  • The video purportedly shows Atishi making insensitive remarks about Guru Tegh Bahadur in the Delhi Assembly.
  • Punjab police claim that a forensic examination indicates that Atishi did not utter the word “Guru” in the video.
  • BJP MLAs are demanding that Atishi’s membership be revoked from the Assembly.
  • Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta has stated that the Punjab police’s action constitutes a “breach of privilege” of the House and that action will be considered against the Police Commissioner of Jalandhar.
  • The initial news reports of the ‘insensitive’ remarks began circulating on January 6, 2026.

Critical Analysis:
This event highlights the increasingly contentious relationship between the AAP and BJP, with social media playing a significant role in escalating political disputes. The accusation of a doctored video being circulated to malign a political opponent suggests a deliberate attempt at character assassination and could be indicative of the strategies being employed in the lead-up to future elections. The involvement of law enforcement from a state governed by the opposing party further complicates the matter, raising questions about political interference and the impartial administration of justice.

Key Takeaways:

  • Political tensions between the AAP and BJP are intensifying.
  • The manipulation of video evidence is a growing concern in political discourse.
  • The involvement of state police forces in inter-party disputes raises questions about impartiality.
  • The Speaker of the House views police action as breach of the House’s authority.
  • The event unfolded over a week, initially reported on January 6, 2026 and escalating to an FIR on January 9, 2026.

Impact Analysis:

The long-term impact of this incident could include increased distrust between political parties and a further erosion of public confidence in the veracity of information shared online. The legal and political ramifications of the FIR and the Assembly’s response could set precedents for how such disputes are handled in the future. The incident also underscores the need for greater media literacy and fact-checking to combat the spread of disinformation. Furthermore, this event may impact the upcoming elections, by influencing voter perception of both parties and their leadership, and shaping the narratives around ethical conduct and responsible governance.

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