Chandigarh: Proceedings in the Punjab Legislative Assembly were disrupted on Wednesday after a heated confrontation broke out between lawmakers of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party and the opposition Indian National Congress over controversial remarks allegedly made by Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira.
The tension escalated during Zero Hour when Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema raised objections to Khaira’s reported comments about women beneficiaries of government schemes. Cheema claimed the statements were disrespectful and referred to women receiving welfare benefits in an inappropriate manner, including a remark comparing them to “bonded labourers.”
Calling the comments unacceptable, the minister demanded that Khaira issue an unconditional apology in the House. He also urged the Assembly to take strict action, including cancelling Khaira’s membership as a legislator, arguing that such statements insult the dignity of women.
The issue quickly led to a sharp standoff between members of the ruling party and opposition legislators. Congress MLAs protested when the Speaker declined to allow Khaira to present his explanation immediately, insisting that the MLA first apologise for the remarks.
As tensions mounted, several Congress lawmakers entered the well of the House to voice their protest. Amid the continuing uproar, the Speaker was forced to adjourn Zero Hour for half an hour in an attempt to restore order.
Later, Congress members staged a walkout from the Assembly, accusing the ruling side of denying their colleague a chance to clarify his position.
Meanwhile, AAP leader and minister Aman Arora criticised the opposition, alleging that the controversy reflected what he described as the “mindset” of the Congress party. He said the remarks were offensive and deserved condemnation.
The confrontation added to the tense political atmosphere in the House, with the controversy dominating the day’s proceedings and highlighting the growing friction between the government and the opposition in Punjab.
