Did Punjab AAP Stage Protests Against Congress Leader Bajwa’s ‘Band-Baja’ Comment?
Synopsis
In an uproar against Congress Leader Partap Singh Bajwa's casteist remarks, AAP Punjab has launched statewide protests. With strong demands for accountability, the protests highlight the ongoing struggle against discrimination and the need for respect towards the Dalit community. This story sheds light on the political tensions in Punjab as AAP rallies support for those marginalized.
Key Takeaways
AAP Punjab organized statewide protests against derogatory remarks.
Calls for a public apology from Congress leadership.
Demonstrations highlighted caste discrimination issues.
Protests saw significant participation across Punjab.
AAP challenges Congress's stance on Dalit issues.
Chandigarh, Feb 13 (NationPress) The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab organized statewide protests labeled “band-baja” in response to Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa’s casteist and derogatory remarks directed at Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO.
Numerous senior leaders, ministers, MLAs, activists, and local residents actively participated in these demonstrations, chanting slogans and calling for a public apology from both Bajwa and the Congress leadership.
AAP leader Baltej Pannu stated, “Partap Singh Bajwa’s shameful and casteist remarks against Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO are not only an affront to a minister but also a direct assault on the entire Dalit community and the diligent laborers of Punjab who earn their living with respect.”
“We insist that Bajwa and the Congress leadership extend a public apology to the Dalit community and all hardworking individuals,” he added.
The General Secretary of AAP Punjab remarked, “The anti-Dalit mentality of the Congress has once again been laid bare before the people of Punjab. The AAP will firmly oppose any attempts to disrespect Dalits or undermine the dignity of the working class in our state.”
Challenging the Congress leadership, AAP Punjab representatives questioned, “Does Partap Singh Bajwa’s casteist language reflect the official stance of the Congress party? Does Congress align with Bajwa’s offensive comments? Will the Congress President and senior leaders denounce him publicly, or will they opt for silence once more, as they have done in instances of Dalit attacks, neglect, or humiliation?”
Protests erupted throughout Punjab, featuring significant gatherings in Malerkotla and Ropar, where many residents and “band-baaja” performers joined AAP leaders and party members in denouncing Bajwa and the Congress party’s anti-Dalit position.
Additional protests also took place in Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, SBS Nagar, Amritsar, Pathankot, Tarn Taran, Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Ludhiana, Moga, Patiala, Sangrur, Bathinda, Fazilka, Firozpur, Mansa, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Barnala, and SAS Nagar, with AAP activists turning out in large numbers to oppose the anti-Dalit mindset.
Point of View
The protests led by AAP Punjab against Partap Singh Bajwa underscore the persistent social issues surrounding caste in India. The incident highlights the need for political accountability and the importance of addressing the concerns of marginalized communities. Such events remind us of the ongoing struggles for equality and respect in society, reflecting the broader challenges faced across the nation.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the protests about?
The protests were against Congress Leader Partap Singh Bajwa's casteist remarks aimed at Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO.
Who participated in the protests?
Senior leaders, ministers, MLAs, activists, and residents joined the demonstrations.
What does AAP demand from Bajwa?
AAP is demanding a public apology from Bajwa and the Congress leadership to the Dalit community.
Where did the protests take place?
Protests occurred across various locations in Punjab, including Malerkotla, Ropar, Hoshiarpur, and Amritsar.
What is the significance of the protests?
The protests highlight ongoing issues of caste discrimination and the need for respect towards the Dalit community in Punjab.
