Why Did Punjab Congress Chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring Skip SC Panel Over Casteist Remark?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Raja Warring's absence raises questions about political accountability.
- He faces serious allegations of casteism.
- Legal proceedings are underway following a complaint from Buta Singh's family.
- The case highlights the importance of transparency in electoral politics.
- Delay in appearances could affect public perception and trust.
Chandigarh, Nov 6 (NationPress) Punjab Congress Chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, who was summoned for allegedly making a casteist remark against former Union Home Minister Buta Singh, did not appear before the State Scheduled Castes Commission earlier this week, citing his commitments related to the Tarn Taran Assembly bypoll.
His legal representative attended but failed to provide the power of Attorney (vakalatnama) during the session.
Raja Warring, who is under police investigation, requested an exemption from personal appearance and asked for a new date post-election.
In the meantime, the District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner of Tarn Taran has also requested to be excused from appearing before the Commission.
Commission Chairman Jasvir Singh Garhi informed the media that the District Election Officer had formally communicated that a letter had been sent to Raja Warring requesting clarification on the matter, which is currently under police verification.
He mentioned that the District Election Officer has sought exemption from the November 6 appearance due to the ongoing bye-election in the constituency.
The Commission approved this request, granting an extension until November 17.
Garhi noted that according to media reports, an FIR has been filed by the Kapurthala Police against Raja Warring.
In light of this, the Commission has requested a copy of the report from the Senior Superintendent of Police regarding the actions taken, which is to be submitted by November 10.
The case against Raja Warring was initiated based on a complaint by Buta Singh's son, Sarabjot Singh Sidhu.
He is facing charges under the applicable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) of 2023, along with Sections 3 (1)(u) and 3 (1)(v) of the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of 1989.
The state Congress Chief, a member of Parliament from Ludhiana, allegedly commented on the late politician's skin colour while campaigning in support of the party's candidate for the Assembly bypoll scheduled for November 11.