Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA and Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday moved a resolution in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha against Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira, seeking his suspension for the remainder of the ongoing session. The Minister called out the MLA for using derogatory language, defying the authority of the Chair, and deliberately disrupting parliamentary proceedings, resulting in the waste of valuable legislative time and undermining the dignity of the House.
Addressing the Assembly, AAP MLA and Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that members had taken serious exception to the objectionable terms used by Sukhpal Singh Khaira. He emphasised that such derogatory rhetoric directly attacks the self-respect and dignity of Punjab’s working class, particularly members of the Scheduled Caste community.
Harpal Singh Cheema emphasised that Punjab’s labour force had played an indispensable role in driving Punjab's progress and prosperity. He stated, “It is the duty of every citizen, and elected representatives in particular, to honour the hard work, integrity, and societal contributions of the working class.”
The AAP MLA asserted, “Demeaning any individual or group on the basis of caste, social status, or economic background cannot and will not be tolerated. MLAs were expected to conduct themselves with the utmost responsibility and preserve the dignity of the House.”
He stated, “Because public representatives exert a widespread influence on society, they must refrain from making comments that hurt the sentiments of any community. Despite historic and ongoing efforts to eradicate caste-based discrimination and foster social equality, resorting to disparaging language against vulnerable and marginalised sections remains deeply regrettable. All MLAs must stand united against caste discrimination.
Touching upon women’s economic empowerment, Harpal Singh Cheema commended CM Bhagwant Singh Mann for the government’s decision to provide monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500 or ₹1,000 to eligible women, which is as a landmark initiative that will help ensure financial security and self-reliance for underprivileged women.
He appealed to the House to send an unequivocal message, stating, “Disrespectful conduct directed at labourers, the Dalit community, or other marginalised groups will meet with zero tolerance.”
Harpal Singh Cheema proposed moving a condemnation motion against the Congress party over its stance. The resolution seeking Sukhpal Singh Khaira’s suspension for the remainder of the session was subsequently put to a vote and declared passed unanimously by the Speaker.
Concluding his address, Harpal Singh Cheema stressed, “Elected representatives in a democracy must lead by example, fostering mutual respect, equality, and fraternity through their speech and conduct. Safeguarding legislative dignity and social self-respect is a collective responsibility.”