Punjab SC Panel Summons Bajwa for Remark on Minister Harbhajan Singh

The Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission (PSSCC) on Tuesday issued a summons to Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, directing him to appear before the commission on February 11. The action follows an alleged objectionable remark made by Bajwa against Punjab Public Works Department Minister Harbhajan Singh.

PSSCC Chairman Jasvir Singh Garhi said the commission took suo motu cognisance of Bajwa’s statement after it drew widespread criticism. Speaking to reporters, Garhi stated that Bajwa has been asked to personally explain his comments at the commission’s office, underlining the seriousness with which the matter is being viewed.

Garhi further revealed that the commission has also sought a detailed report from the Senior Superintendent of Police, Amritsar Rural, to assess the circumstances and implications of the remark. The move signals a broader inquiry into whether the statement violated provisions meant to protect the dignity of Scheduled Castes.

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According to officials, the notice summoning Bajwa was initially delivered to his Sector-8 residence in Chandigarh. However, as people present there allegedly refused to accept it, the commission was compelled to send the notice via email to ensure compliance.

The controversy erupted after Bajwa, while accusing Minister Harbhajan Singh of corruption, remarked that the Congress would “take action” against him once it returns to power. Referring to Singh’s background, Bajwa’s comment was widely perceived as mocking his family’s livelihood, drawing sharp criticism from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Responding strongly, Harbhajan Singh termed the remark an insult to honest labour and poor families. He said his father worked as a band master and educated his children through hard work, adding that the comment was not a personal attack alone but a slight against millions who rise through merit. The AAP has since staged protests, intensifying political tensions in the state.

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