Chandigarh: A political storm has erupted in Punjab after state Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema condemned Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring for his alleged disparaging remarks about former Union Home Minister and veteran Dalit leader late Buta Singh.
Cheema, a senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, accused Warring of showing “arrogance and insensitivity” toward the Dalit community. “His words reflect the mentality of the Punjab Congress President,” Cheema said. “By making such remarks, Raja Warring has not only disrespected the legacy of Buta Singh but also insulted the poor and marginalized people of Punjab. Questioning those who contributed immensely to the nation shows the Congress party’s Rajwadashahi mindset.”
Commission Takes Cognizance
The Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission has taken suo motu notice of Warring’s alleged remarks and issued a notice directing him to submit his explanation by November 6. The Commission has also sought a detailed report from the returning officer of the Tarn Taran constituency by November 4.
The controversy stems from a video circulating on social media in which Warring can allegedly be heard using objectionable language while referring to the late Buta Singh during a rally in support of the Congress candidate for the Tarn Taran bypoll.
Warring’s Clarification
Facing mounting criticism, Raja Warring has since issued a clarification, asserting that his comments were misconstrued. “I never intended to hurt anyone’s feelings. Buta Singh was a fatherly figure and a respected leader,” he said, urging people not to take his words out of context.
However, the clarification has done little to ease the political tension, as opposition leaders continue to demand an apology and further action.
Political Fallout
The issue has reignited caste-related sensitivities in Punjab politics, especially given Buta Singh’s stature as a prominent Dalit leader who held several key portfolios, including that of Union Home Minister.
Analysts say the incident could deepen political fault lines ahead of upcoming local elections, with AAP and other parties seeking to leverage the controversy against the Congress.
As the Commission’s inquiry proceeds, the controversy shows no sign of fading, underscoring how quickly political rhetoric can spiral into larger debates about respect, representation, and leadership in Punjab’s charged political landscape.
