Punjab Assembly Calls for Bharat Ratna for Kanshi Ram
Synopsis
On the last day of its session, the Punjab Assembly unanimously urged the Bharat Ratna for Kanshi Ram, a Dalit leader. This resolution followed demands from prominent political figures, showcasing the ongoing dialogue around honoring significant contributors to India’s freedom struggle.
Key Takeaways
The Punjab Assembly unanimously urges the Bharat Ratna for Kanshi Ram.
Prominent political figures had previously called for this honor.
Two important bills were also passed during the session.
The Assembly condemned casteist remarks by an opposition leader.
There is ongoing debate regarding the recognition of historical icons like Bhagat Singh.
Chandigarh, March 16 (NationPress) On the concluding day of its session on Monday, the Punjab Assembly passed a resolution with unanimous support, advocating for the award of India’s most prestigious civilian title, the Bharat Ratna, to Kanshi Ram, a celebrated Dalit leader and founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).
Previously, both Rahul Gandhi, the opposition leader in the Lok Sabha, and Mayawati, the BSP president, had voiced their support for granting the Bharat Ratna to Kanshi Ram.
On the same day, the Assembly also approved two legislative bills. The Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units and Stockists and Retailers (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introduced by Barinder Kumar Goyal, the Minister of Water Resources and Mining, received majority approval. Additionally, the Shri Guru Teg Bahadur World Class University, Punjab Bill, 2026, put forth by Harjot Singh Bains, the Education Minister, was passed unanimously.
The Assembly also passed a resolution that strongly condemned the derogatory and casteist comments made by Partap Singh Bajwa, the Leader of the Opposition, against Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO. This resolution was moved by Manjit Singh Bilaspur.
In the meantime, Partap Singh Bajwa criticized the Speaker for declining to consider a resolution that called for the Bharat Ratna to be awarded to Shaheed Bhagat Singh.
Speaking to the media, the Congress leader stated that his party had formally proposed a resolution to honor Bhagat Singh with the highest accolade for his sacrifices and pivotal role in India’s liberation, but it was not addressed by the Assembly.
Bajwa emphasized that Bhagat Singh was more than just a revolutionary from Punjab; he was a national symbol of bravery, sacrifice, and the essence of freedom for the entire nation. He remarked that bestowing the Bharat Ratna upon him was long overdue and would serve as a rightful homage to one of India’s greatest martyrs.
The Congress member pointed out the irony in the AAP government’s frequent references to Bhagat Singh's ideals while failing to act when the opportunity arose to formally endorse the highest civilian honor for him.
Point of View
Particularly within the Dalit community. It underscores the importance of acknowledging historical figures who have played pivotal roles in shaping modern India, while also raising questions about the recognition of other national icons.
NationPress
7 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bharat Ratna?
The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award in India, given for exceptional service or performance in any field of human endeavor.
What other resolutions were passed during this session?
The Punjab Assembly also passed the Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units and Stockists and Retailers (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Shri Guru Teg Bahadur World Class University, Punjab Bill, 2026.
Why did Partap Singh Bajwa criticize the Speaker?
Bajwa criticized the Speaker for not allowing a resolution for awarding the Bharat Ratna to Shaheed Bhagat Singh, highlighting the perceived neglect of significant historical figures.
What is the significance of honoring Bhagat Singh?
Honoring Bhagat Singh with the Bharat Ratna would recognize his immense sacrifice and contribution to India’s freedom struggle, serving as a tribute to his legacy.
