CHANDIGARH, Mar 6: Punjab minister Harbhajan Singh on Friday led a protest in Chandigarh against Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa over remarks that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders described as objectionable.
Row Over Bajwa’s Remarks
The controversy stems from a statement made by Bajwa last month while accusing the minister of corruption. During his remarks, Bajwa said, “Jehra pehle band vajaanda reha, ehda band asin vajavange (He used to play in a band before; we will take him to task).”
The statement sparked criticism from the ruling AAP, with party leaders claiming the remark insulted people who earn their livelihood through such professions. Bajwa, however, rejected the allegations and maintained that his comments were not related to caste.
Symbolic Demonstration Outside Assembly
On Friday, AAP leaders and supporters staged a demonstration outside the Punjab Vidhan Sabha ahead of the beginning of the state Assembly’s budget session. In a symbolic protest, participants brought a wedding band to the venue to highlight the issue.
Harbhajan Singh, joined by several party workers and leaders including MLA Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi, demanded that Bajwa issue a public apology. Protesters raised slogans against the Congress leader during the demonstration.
Minister Responds To Controversy
Singh had earlier clarified that his father worked as a band master and said Bajwa’s remarks appeared to mock those who earn an honest living through such work.
The matter also drew the attention of the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission (PSSCC), which summoned Bajwa to explain his statement. In his response to the panel, the Congress leader denied making any caste-related remarks.
The protest added to the political tension in the state as the Punjab Assembly began its budget session on Friday.