Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira Suspended for Remainder of Punjab Assembly Session

Congress legislator Sukhpal Singh Khaira has been suspended for the remainder of the ongoing Punjab Assembly session following a resolution moved by state Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday over alleged derogatory remarks and disruption of legislative proceedings.

Moving the resolution in the Assembly, Cheema accused Khaira of using objectionable language, disregarding the authority of the Chair and deliberately disrupting proceedings, resulting in a waste of legislative time and undermining the dignity of the House.

Cheema said the remarks had drawn strong objections from Assembly members, particularly over their alleged impact on the dignity and self-respect of the working class and members of the Scheduled Caste community.

### Cheema condemns alleged remarks against marginalised communities

Addressing the House, the Finance Minister stressed the contribution of labourers to Punjab’s development and prosperity, arguing that elected representatives had a responsibility to respect their work and social contributions.

He said disparaging individuals or groups on the basis of caste, social status or economic background was unacceptable and called on legislators to uphold the dignity of the Assembly.

Cheema also urged all political representatives to oppose caste-based discrimination and avoid statements that could hurt the sentiments of vulnerable and marginalised communities.

He said public representatives had a wider influence on society and should exercise responsibility in their conduct and public statements.

### Finance Minister highlights women's financial assistance scheme

During his address, Cheema also praised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for the state government's decision to provide monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500 and ₹1,000 to eligible women.

He described the initiative as a step towards strengthening financial security and self-reliance among economically disadvantaged women.

Cheema called on the Assembly to send a clear message against disrespectful conduct towards labourers, Dalits and other marginalised sections of society.

He also proposed a condemnation motion against the Congress over its stance on the issue.

### Resolution passed unanimously

The resolution seeking Khaira’s suspension for the remainder of the ongoing Assembly session was subsequently put to a vote and passed unanimously, according to the proceedings.

The suspension follows the controversy over the legislator’s alleged remarks and conduct in the House, with the resolution framing the action as necessary to preserve the dignity of legislative proceedings and reinforce expectations of responsible conduct from elected representatives.