Why Did BJP Delete Operation Blue Star Post?

Amritsar : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sparked controversy by posting a statement on social media referring to those killed during Operation Blue Star as martyrs. Along with this, images of army tanks and the damaged Akal Takht were shared, which immediately drew widespread attention and criticism. The post was made on the official Punjab BJP Facebook page, leading to intense discussions across social and political platforms. Operation Blue Star, carried out in 1984, remains a sensitive and deeply polarizing event in Indian history, especially in Punjab, as it involved a military assault on the Golden Temple complex. The BJP’s post was seen by many as provocative, triggering backlash from various sections of society. Within four hours of posting, the BJP removed the controversial content, possibly to quell the rising unrest and criticism. Despite the post being deleted, the incident ignited a political debate with no BJP leader willing to comment officially on the matter. This episode highlights the fragile nature of historical memories linked to Operation Blue Star and the importance of handling such topics carefully in public discourse. The political tension around the event continues to influence Punjab’s socio-political environment, with many calling for respectful remembrance of all those affected. The BJP’s social media strategy in this case faced questions regarding the timing and sensitivity of the message. As the operation’s anniversary approached, emotions were already heightened, making the social media post even more controversial. The removal of the post did little to calm the situation, as the matter remained a talking point among political analysts and the general public alike. This incident underscores the need for political parties to be cautious and considerate when addressing historical and emotional issues. It also reflects how social media can rapidly amplify political controversies, impacting public sentiment and political discourse. The government and party officials are expected to navigate such sensitive subjects with diplomacy to maintain social harmony and avoid exacerbating tensions.