PunjabPolitics – Harbhajan Singh Leads Protest Over Remarks by Opposition Leader Bajwa
PunjabPolitics – Punjab political developments remain in focus after a dispute between ruling and opposition leaders over remarks that triggered protests outside the state assembly.
Punjab minister Harbhajan Singh on Friday led a demonstration in Chandigarh against Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, accusing him of making comments that ruling Aam Aadmi Party leaders described as inappropriate and disrespectful.
Protest Outside Punjab Assembly
The protest took place outside the Punjab Vidhan Sabha ahead of the beginning of the state’s budget session. Several Aam Aadmi Party leaders, legislators, and supporters gathered near the assembly complex to express their dissatisfaction with Bajwa’s remarks.
As part of the symbolic demonstration, protesters brought along a wedding band. The move was intended to highlight the controversy surrounding Bajwa’s earlier statement referencing Singh’s background. Demonstrators raised slogans and called on the Congress leader to publicly apologise.
Among those present during the protest was AAP MLA Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi, who joined other party members in criticising the opposition leader’s comments.
Controversial Remarks Spark Political Row
The controversy stems from remarks made by Bajwa last month while accusing Harbhajan Singh of corruption. During his statement, Bajwa referred to Singh’s past by saying that the minister had earlier played in a band and that he would be held accountable.
The statement quickly became a political flashpoint, with several AAP leaders arguing that the comment insulted individuals who earn their livelihood through band performances and similar professions.
Harbhajan Singh responded strongly to the remark, explaining that his father worked as a band master. According to Singh, Bajwa’s statement appeared to belittle honest professions and the dignity of labour.
Minister Demands Public Apology
Addressing supporters during the protest, Singh demanded that the Leader of Opposition withdraw the remark and offer an apology. He said that professions such as playing in wedding bands represent honest work and deserve respect.
AAP leaders echoed this sentiment during the demonstration, stating that such comments should not be used in political criticism. They argued that public representatives should maintain respectful language while addressing opponents.
The protest was organised as a show of solidarity with people involved in traditional band performances and similar occupations across the state.
Bajwa Denies Caste-Related Intent
Following the backlash, Partap Singh Bajwa rejected the allegations that his remarks had any connection to caste or social background. He clarified that his statement was made in a political context and was directed at Singh’s conduct rather than his family or profession.
Bajwa maintained that his words were misinterpreted and insisted that he had no intention of targeting any community or occupation.
Scheduled Castes Commission Seeks Clarification
The matter also drew the attention of the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission. The commission issued a notice to Bajwa, asking him to provide an explanation regarding the remark made about the minister.
In his response to the commission, the Congress leader reiterated that his statement did not involve caste-based language or discrimination. He maintained that the comment had been taken out of context during the political exchange.
Political Tensions Ahead of Budget Session
The protest occurred just hours before the start of the Punjab Assembly’s budget session, adding to the already charged political atmosphere between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party and the opposition Congress.
With both sides maintaining their positions, the dispute has become another point of confrontation in the state’s political landscape. While AAP leaders continue to demand an apology, the Congress leadership has defended Bajwa’s explanation and denied any wrongdoing.