Harsimrat Badal Calls for Action Against Punjab CM's Offensive Remarks on Women
Synopsis
In a bold move, Harsimrat Kaur Badal has urged the National Commission for Women to address the derogatory comments made by Punjab's Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann. Highlighting the seriousness of the situation, she emphasized the need for accountability and respect towards women's dignity in public discourse.
Key Takeaways
Harsimrat Kaur Badal demands action against derogatory remarks.
Comments from Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann trivialized women's dignity.
Legal implications include provisions for sexual harassment .
Public discourse on women's respect remains critical.
Constitutional guarantees protect women's rights.
Chandigarh, March 12 (NationPress) Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MP, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, urged the National Commission for Women to acknowledge the misogynistic and derogatory comments made by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann regarding women. In a communication to the commission's Chairperson, she highlighted that Mann, while speaking to students at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana, described women in derogatory terms such as "yellow wasps" and referred to Pakistan as "da jhanda" based on their attire. He even misrepresented a relationship with a girl to his friends.
“More alarmingly, one girl who turned down his advances in college was compelled to welcome him at an event where he was a chief guest,” she added.
Harsimrat Badal emphasized that the tone of these anecdotes, shared during a gathering to celebrate International Women’s Day, diminished the dignity of women and seemed to endorse hooliganism, eve-teasing, and objectification.
She asserted that these comments were unbefitting for someone in a constitutional role and the head of a state government. By making such derogatory remarks in front of impressionable college students, Mann conveyed a troubling message that the dignity of women could be undermined for amusement.
The Bathinda MP stated that this incident warranted a case of sexual harassment (Section 74), insulting the modesty of a woman (Section 79), and acts intended to outrage a woman's modesty (Section 75) under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita of 2023.
She mentioned that such behavior contradicts the constitutional guarantees under Articles 14, 15, and 21, which ensure equality before the law, prohibit gender discrimination, and protect the dignity and personal liberty of every citizen.
In her letter, she asserted that the dignity and respect of women should be sacrosanct in public dialogue, especially from those in positions of governance and leadership.
“I sincerely hope that the National Commission for Women will treat this issue with the necessary seriousness and take appropriate legal action,” she concluded.
Point of View
This incident highlights the urgent need for accountability from public figures regarding their comments on women. Harsimrat Badal’s intervention reflects a broader societal demand for respect and dignity towards women, especially from those in positions of power.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What remarks did Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann make?
He made derogatory comments about women during a speech at Punjab Agricultural University, referring to them in offensive terms.
What action did Harsimrat Kaur Badal take?
She appealed to the National Commission for Women to address Mann's remarks, labeling them as misogynistic.
What legal provisions did Harsimrat Badal cite?
She mentioned provisions for sexual harassment and insulting the modesty of women under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita of 2023.
Why is this incident significant?
It highlights the ongoing challenges women face in public discourse and the need for accountability from leaders.
What constitutional guarantees are relevant here?
Articles 14, 15, and 21 ensure equality, prohibit discrimination based on sex, and protect personal liberty.
