CHANDIGARH : Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has strongly condemned the remarks made by Congress legislator Sukhpal Singh Khaira, calling them “derogatory” and “deeply insulting” to the women of Punjab. The incident, now widely referred to as the Sukhpal Singh Khaira Controversy, has sparked outrage across political circles and social media platforms.
Speaking during the proceedings in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha and addressing the media later, Cheema demanded that the Congress high command take immediate action and expel Khaira from the party for his offensive remarks. “It is deeply shameful that a legislator, elected multiple times in a state where Guru Nanak Dev preached the dignity of women, could brazenly insult the mothers and daughters of Punjab,” Cheema said.
The controversy arose when Khaira reportedly questioned how women celebrating the announcement of ₹1,000 under the Mawan Dhian Satkar scheme could “give birth to the brave.” These comments were widely criticized, prompting Cheema to publicly address the matter in the assembly.
Cheema Slams Sukhpal Khaira Controversy, Upholds Women’s Empowerment
“The Sukhpal Singh Khaira Controversy reflects the outdated mindset that some politicians still hold towards women. Such behavior is unacceptable in today’s Punjab, especially when the state government has been committed to women’s empowerment through schemes like Mawan Dhian Satkar,” Cheema added.
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Cheema emphasized that every mother and daughter in Punjab deserves respect and that their contributions to society must never be undermined. He also highlighted that Punjab’s progressive initiatives for women have set benchmarks in governance, making Khaira’s remarks not only inappropriate but politically and morally condemnable.
Political analysts have noted that the Sukhpal Singh Khaira Controversy could have serious repercussions for Khaira’s political career. Citizens and activists have expressed strong support for Cheema’s condemnation, calling for strict action against the lawmaker.
As the matter continues to gain traction in media and social platforms, the spotlight remains on the Congress party’s response and whether it will act decisively against the legislator involved in the Sukhpal Singh Khaira Controversy.