Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Harpal Cheema slams Khaira over ‘derogatory’ remarks, demands immediate apology
Punjab Finance Minister says offensive comments against women and labour community are unacceptable; seeks strict action if apology not issued
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, March 11, 2026: Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday strongly condemned alleged derogatory remarks made by Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira, demanding an immediate and unconditional public apology.
Addressing the House in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, the Finance Minister said the comments made by Khaira on social media platforms were highly offensive and unacceptable, particularly the remarks directed at women of Punjab.
Cheema also appealed to the Speaker of the Assembly to initiate strict disciplinary action if the Bholath MLA fails to apologise publicly for what he termed “offensive and unparliamentary language.”
The minister alleged that when he objected to Khaira’s remarks, the Congress leader launched a personal attack and referred to him as a “bandua mazdoor.” Cheema said such language not only insults an individual but also undermines the dignity of labour and hardworking people across the state.
Speaking to the media outside the House, Cheema further demanded that the Indian National Congress issue an official apology for the remarks made by its MLA. He said the party leadership must take responsibility for the conduct of its representative.
Taking a firm stand, Cheema urged the Speaker to act decisively if Khaira does not apologise. “If he fails to issue a prompt and public apology for his highly offensive language, his membership in the Assembly should be cancelled,” the minister said.
Highlighting the dignity of labour, Cheema said many leaders in the country come from humble backgrounds and such remarks disrespect the working-class roots of countless families in Punjab.
The Finance Minister also said he takes pride in the democratic system of India and credited the Constitution drafted by B. R. Ambedkar for empowering individuals from modest backgrounds to rise and serve in public office.
Cheema expressed gratitude to Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann for placing their trust in him and giving him the opportunity to serve as Punjab’s Finance Minister.
He added that he takes pride in presenting five state budgets aimed at the welfare of women, youth, farmers, workers, traders and industrialists in Punjab.
Responding sharply to the controversy, Cheema also challenged Khaira to have his own credentials examined instead of making personal attacks.