The North News
Chandigarh, March 12
The Punjab Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution to refer a breach of privilege case against Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira to its Privileges Committee after remarks he made about the Speaker and members of the ruling party. The resolution was moved by Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and approved with a significant majority on Thursday.
Cheema said the action was prompted by social media posts made by Khaira on 10 March, in which he described the Speaker, cabinet ministers and MLAs of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party as “bonded labourers”.
Speaking in the House, Cheema said the remarks were “an insult to the Constitution and the people’s mandate”.
“The language used undermines the dignity of constitutionally elected representatives,” he told the Assembly.
According to the minister, Mr Khaira was given an opportunity in the House on Wednesday to clarify his comments and apologise but refused to withdraw his statement.
The resolution also condemned what the minister described as “objectionable gestures” made by the legislator while leaving the Assembly during an opposition walkout.
Mr Cheema alleged that some lawmakers were resorting to theatrics and abusive language to gain traction on social media.
He urged members to support the motion so that the Privileges Committee could carry out a detailed inquiry into the matter.
If the committee finds a breach of privilege, it may recommend disciplinary action to the House.
