The Punjab Assembly passed a resolution on Thursday to send a Breach of Privilege case involving Congress member Sukhpal Singh Khaira to the Privileges Committee. The resolution, brought forward by Cabinet Minister Harpal Cheema, was in response to derogatory remarks and unparliamentary behavior by Khaira, which were seen as a direct affront to the House, its members, the Constitution, and the public. Cheema highlighted that the disciplinary action was prompted by social media posts made by Khaira on March 10, 2026, where he labeled the Speaker, Cabinet Ministers, and Aam Aadmi Party MLAs as ‘bonded laborers.’
Such language, as per Cheema, not only disrespects constitutionally-elected representatives but also undermines the people’s mandate. Despite being given an opportunity to clarify and apologize for his statements on March 11, Khaira refused to retract his words, further exacerbating the situation. The resolution also condemned Khaira’s objectionable gestures while leaving the House during an Opposition walkout on the same day.
The minister criticized Khaira’s behavior as unbecoming of a Legislative Assembly member, stating that his actions lacked parliamentary decorum. Cheema expressed concern that some legislators might be compromising their oath to the Constitution by resorting to such language and theatrics for social media attention and potential financial gain. To maintain the House’s dignity, Cheema urged the Assembly to pass a resolution entrusting the Privileges Committee with a thorough investigation into the matter.
