Anti-Sikh riots cases sole reason behind my resignation: HS Phoolka

Denying rumours of distancing himself from the party due to the Sikh protest, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA H.S. Phoolka on Sunday said his only reason to resign as the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Punjab Assembly was to fight the 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases.

"These allegations are absolutely false. Have nothing to with the Sikh protesters or the complaint which they are carrying. I have always distanced myself from this," Phoolka told ANI.

Phoolka said he has been handling these cases since 33 years and since, they are not at very crucial juncture, he ought to choose these cases above his post.

"I have been handling these 1984 cases since last 33 years now. These cases are now at a very crucial stage. The Bar Council has not granted me permission to appear in these cases. As an MLA or MP, one can appear in cases but not as a minister. I asked for the permission but Bar Council denied it. So, I have to choose now between these cases and the post of (Leader of Opposition) LoP with the minister's rank. So, obviously I will choose myself for doing these cases." he said.

The AAP MLA further said that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has appreciated his move as he understands how dearer these cases are to him.

Earlier on July 5, Phoolka had tweeted saying he will not give up the 1984 cases.

"Will not give up 84Carnage cases. Asking Bar Council if by giving up Minister status, I can appear in these cases," (sic) he tweeted.