Is Punjab Congress Chief Facing Consequences for Casteist Remarks Against Buta Singh?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Punjab Police registered an FIR against Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring.
- Warring is accused of making casteist remarks regarding Buta Singh.
- He claims his comments were taken out of context and has issued an apology.
- The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has intervened in the matter.
- This incident could impact the upcoming Tarn Taran Assembly bypoll.
Chandigarh, Nov 5 (NationPress) The Punjab Police initiated a First Information Report (FIR) against the state Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring for purportedly making casteist remarks about the late former Union Home Minister Buta Singh.
The complaint was lodged by Buta Singh's son, Sarabjot Singh Sidhu.
Warring faces charges under pertinent Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) of 2023, including Sections 3 (1)(u) and 3 (1)(v) of the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of 1989.
The Congress leader, representing Ludhiana in Parliament, reportedly commented on the late politician's skin tone while campaigning for the party's candidate in the upcoming Tarn Taran Assembly bypoll, set for November 11.
In light of the backlash, Raja Warring has stated that he regarded Buta Singh as a father figure and would never intend to show disrespect towards him or anyone else.
In response to reports that the Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission had taken suo motu notice regarding the matter and summoned him, Warring remarked, "I reaffirm my respect for the late Sardar Buta Singh-ji. If my words have caused any hurt, I offer my sincere apologies."
He emphasized that his comments were meant to be positive, aiming to showcase the inclusive character of the Congress party.
"I hold him in the highest regard as an exceptional leader and fatherly figure. I reiterate my unconditional apology to anyone who may have felt offended," Warring added.
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes issued a notice to the Tarn Taran Deputy Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police concerning Warring's alleged casteist remarks made during a rally in the district.
Following a news report based on a statement from BJP national General Secretary Tarun Chugh, the commission requested a report on actions taken within seven days of receiving the notice.