Opposition Walkout After Uproar Over Khaira Comment in Punjab Assembly

The Punjab Assembly descended into chaos on Wednesday as a political storm erupted over Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira’s alleged remarks on women , triggering a fierce confrontation between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the opposition Congress during the ongoing Budget Session .

The controversy stems from comments allegedly made by Bholath MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira on social media regarding the ‘Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satkar Yojna’ , a flagship welfare initiative announced by the Punjab government . The scheme promises ₹1,000 per month to eligible women beneficiaries , and has been projected by the AAP government as a key measure aimed at strengthening financial security and dignity for women across the state.

The row had already sparked outrage earlier in the week when the Assembly passed a resolution condemning Khaira’s remarks , with ruling party legislators accusing him of making derogatory comments about women celebrating the scheme . The issue resurfaced dramatically on Wednesday during Zero Hour , when Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema raised the matter in the House and demanded strict action.

Calling the alleged comments “unacceptable and unbecoming of a legislator,” Cheema insisted that Khaira offer an unconditional apology . He also urged Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan to take disciplinary action if the Congress leader refused to express regret.

The debate quickly spiralled into a heated exchange as Khaira stood up to respond, leading to sharp arguments between him and treasury bench members. Several AAP legislators, including women MLAs , joined the protest and moved towards the Well of the House , demanding immediate action against the Congress leader.

During the confrontation, Cheema accused Khaira of launching a personal attack , alleging that the Congress MLA referred to him as a “bandhua mazdoor” (bonded labourer) . The remark further inflamed tempers, with members from both sides engaging in angry exchanges.

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa defended Khaira, arguing that the Assembly should not take cognisance of statements made outside the House . He also attempted to introduce a condemnation motion against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann , alleging that the Chief Minister had made inappropriate remarks about women on International Women’s Day . However, the Speaker rejected the motion, saying it appeared to be an attempt to divert attention from the main issue .

As the shouting and sloganeering intensified, AAP legislators again rushed to the Well , forcing the Speaker to adjourn the House for 20 minutes .

When proceedings resumed, Bajwa demanded that Khaira be allowed to clarify his remarks. However, the Speaker maintained that the Congress MLA must first tender an apology before speaking , triggering another round of protests.

With tempers refusing to cool, Congress legislators eventually staged a walkout , accusing the treasury benches of silencing the opposition.

The episode highlighted the deepening political rivalry between AAP and Congress in Punjab , with the controversy over remarks on women’s welfare schemes turning the Assembly session into a battleground of sharp political confrontation.