Congress leader Sam Pitroda has apologised for his recent remarks about 1984 anti-Sikh riots and said that his "misrepresented" remarks were intended just to be about "moving on".
Congress' Sam Pitroda became centre of a controversy after BJP president Amit Shah tweeted a video in which he can be seen saying "84 mein hua toh hua". Pitroda's remarks were construed as him being insensitive about 1984 anti-sikh riots.
Congress distanced itself from Pitroda's earlier statement and warned its members to be "careful" and "sensitive" while making statements. Congress clearly said in the statement that Pitroda's words do not reflect the opinion of the party with respect to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
Anti-Sikh riots had taken place in the immediate aftermath of Indira Gandhi assassination at the hands of her Sikh bodyguards. BJP has constantly alleged that Congress party, who was heading central government at the time, supported the violent activities.
Congress in its statement published earlier today, maintained that it wants "stern punishment" for all those found guilty for crimes committed during the 1984 and 2002 riots.
In the statement, the Congress criticised BJP for its decision to "field a candidate charged with terror crimes". This is an apparent reference to Pragya Thakur who is contesting from Bhopal on BJP ticket. However, Congress' press statement does not mention her by name.
To read the press statement Click here.
Sam Pitroda tried to explain his stand before the press statement was issued. He accused BJP of twisting his words.
"I have noticed how BJP is again twisting three words from my interview to distort facts, divide us and hide their failures. Sad that they have nothing positive to offer. I acknowledged the pain of my Sikh brothers and sisters during difficult times in 1984 and deeply feel for the atrocities that happened. But these are things from past that are not really relevant to this election which is all about what did Modi government do for the last five years," he said in a series of tweets.
Read | BJP twisting my words to distort facts, hide their failures: Sam Pitroda on comment over 1984 anti-Sikh riots
Watch| Sam Pitroda makes controversial statement on 1984 anti-Sikh riots
