Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Monday unanimously passed a resolution strongly condemning the offensive and casteist remarks made by the Leader of Opposition (LoP), Partap Singh Bajwa, against Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO.
The issue pertains to a statement made by Partap Singh Bajwa during a public gathering at Jandiala Guru in Amritsar on February 6, 2026. During his address, Bajwa allegedly targeted Harbhajan ETO, who hails from the Dalit community, using derogatory and caste-based remarks. Members of the House stated that such remarks were not only a personal insult to the Minister but also a grave affront to his family background and the hardworking Dalit community at large.
The matter was brought to the house by MLA Manjit Singh Bilaspur, who highlighted that these comments hurt the dignity of band-orchestra performers and daily-wage laborers who earn their livelihood through honest hard work. The legislators emphasized that individuals holding responsible public offices must exercise restraint and uphold the values of respect, equality, and social harmony.
Moving the condemnation resolution, MLA Manjit Singh Bilaspur stated that the House strongly denounces the "shameful" comments made by Partap Singh Bajwa. He remarked that such behavior reflects a feudal and anti-Dalit mindset, which is detrimental to the social fabric and communal harmony of Punjab.
The resolution demanded that Partap Singh Bajwa tender an unconditional public apology for hurting the sentiments of the Dalit community.
Furthermore, an appeal was made to the Speaker to take note of the matter and initiate appropriate disciplinary action to ensure that no political leader in future should insult any individual based on their occupation or caste in the future.