Chandigarh, March 11 (NationPress) The Finance Minister of Punjab, Harpal Cheema, has publicly denounced Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira for his offensive comments made on social media, insisting on an immediate and unconditional apology.

Cheema has urged the Speaker of the Vidhan Sabha to impose strict disciplinary measures should Khaira fail to retract his remarks.

In a statement to the House, Cheema remarked, "Sukhpal Singh Khaira has made derogatory statements aimed at the women of Punjab and subsequently targeted me personally, labeling me as a 'bandua mazdoor' when I attempted to challenge his remarks. Such language is utterly unacceptable and reflects poorly on a legislator's character."

Further addressing the media outside the House, he emphasized that Congress should extend an official apology due to its members' use of such derogatory language towards both the labor community and women.

Cheema insisted that the leadership of the party must take accountability for their representative's disgraceful behavior.

Taking a strong position on the matter, the minister called for the Speaker to take decisive action.

"I have formally requested the Speaker of the House to impose strict disciplinary measures. If Sukhpal Singh Khaira does not promptly and publicly apologize for his egregious and unparliamentary language, his membership in the legislative assembly should be revoked," he stated.

Expressing his distress over the personal attack on his modest origins, Cheema reminded the assembly of the dignity of labor and the proud heritage of the working class.

"I urge the members of this House, especially those from Congress, to contemplate their own heritage. Many elected officials' ancestors came from working-class backgrounds. Would any of them accept being called a 'bandua mazdoor'? Such language not only disrespects an individual but also undermines the dignity of Punjab's hardworking populace," he asserted.

Beyond personal attacks, the minister emphasized his pride in the democratic principles of the nation and the empowerment afforded by the Constitution of India.

"I take great pride in our democratic system. Babasaheb Ambedkar crafted the Constitution of India, which has enabled individuals from humble beginnings to rise and serve the populace in esteemed positions," Cheema remarked.

Highlighting his governmental achievements, the minister stated his pride in his public service record.

"I am immensely proud to have presented five comprehensive state budgets focused on the welfare and prosperity of Punjab’s mothers, daughters, youth, farmers, workers, traders, and industrialists," Cheema concluded.