Punjab Assembly Unanimously Passes Resolution for Bharat Ratna to Kanshi Ram
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha made a significant move on Monday by unanimously passing a resolution that demands the Central Government confer the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, posthumously upon BSP founder Kanshi Ram. This action was timed to coincide with the 92nd birth anniversary of the revered Dalit leader, which was celebrated on Sunday, highlighting his enduring legacy in Indian politics.
Cross-Party Support and Political Debates
During the session, the resolution saw widespread support across party lines. Congress MLAs, led by Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, backed the demand but were quick to note that their party leader Rahul Gandhi had recently made a similar appeal in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, Minister Aman Arora of the AAP refused to credit the Congress, pointing out that AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal had raised the issue as early as 2016 during a visit to Kanshi Ram's native village.
Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, who moved the resolution, emphasized that honoring Kanshi Ram would serve as a fitting tribute to his contributions. "The Messiah of the poor and downtrodden successfully organised Dalits, backwards and minorities into a common political force," Cheema stated, underscoring the leader's role in mobilizing marginalized communities.
Commemorative Debate and Subsequent Commotion
The resolution prompted an hour-long debate in the assembly, with members from various parties reflecting on Kanshi Ram's impact on the socio-political awakening of the "Bahujan Samaj". BSP legislator Nachattar Pal also voiced support for the resolution, reinforcing its bipartisan nature.
However, moments after the unanimous passage, the House descended into commotion when AAP MLA Manjit Singh Bilaspur introduced a censure motion against Bajwa. This motion alleged that Bajwa made "casteist remarks" against PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO during a political rally in Jandiala Guru on February 6. The treasury benches, terming it an insult to Dalits, passed the censure resolution by voice vote, leading to a walkout by Congress MLAs. Bajwa dismissed the move as a "diversionary tactic".
AAP Protests Over LPG Crisis
In a related development, AAP legislators, including ministers, staged a protest in the House against the BJP-led Central Government over an alleged cooking gas shortage. Led by Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, they entered the assembly raising slogans, highlighting ongoing concerns about the LPG crisis in the country. This protest added to the day's political fervor, showcasing the multifaceted issues being addressed in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
The resolution for Kanshi Ram's Bharat Ratna not only honors a pivotal figure in Indian history but also reflects the ongoing political dynamics and debates within Punjab's legislative framework.
