SAD Leader Ganieve Kaur Majithia to Approach NCW Against Punjab CM Over Alleged Remarks
In a significant development in Punjab politics, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Ganieve Kaur Majithia announced on Wednesday that she will approach the National Commission for Women (NCW), seeking action against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over his alleged remarks objectifying women and using derogatory language.
Demand for Apology and Threat of Legal Action
Speaking to reporters in Chandigarh, Majithia stated that the Chief Minister must apologize unconditionally for the comments he made about women during a recent speech in Ludhiana. She emphasized that if Mann issues a sincere apology, the matter could be resolved amicably. However, if he fails to do so, she will formally lodge a complaint with the NCW, escalating the issue to a national platform.
"If the CM does not apologize for what he said about women in Ludhiana, we will certainly approach the Women's Commission," Majithia declared, underscoring her determination to hold the government accountable.
Concerns Over Assault on Anganwadi Workers
Beyond the verbal remarks, Majithia raised serious concerns about the alleged physical assault on Anganwadi workers during recent protests. According to her account, women protesters were beaten with sticks, and their dupattas were pulled aggressively, which she described as a direct attack on the dignity and safety of women.
"We will also raise the issue of women being beaten with sticks, their dupattas being pulled, and the alleged fake encounter in which a mother lost her only son," she added, highlighting multiple grievances that she plans to present before the Commission.
Fake Encounter Allegations and Legislative Criticism
The SAD legislator further indicated that the issue of an alleged fake encounter, resulting in the death of a mother's only son, will be brought to the NCW's attention. This move aims to address broader concerns about law enforcement and justice in the state.
Majithia also criticized the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for what she termed as "wasting the valuable time" of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on trivial matters. She argued that the assembly should prioritize public concerns over personal controversies, urging a focus on substantive governance issues.
Response to Congress Leader's Statement
When questioned about Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira's statement in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Majithia adopted a nuanced stance. She clarified that she neither supported nor opposed his remarks but believed he should have been given a fair opportunity to speak in the House.
"I am not in favour of that statement, and I am not defending it either. But he should have been heard. Even today, he was not given the opportunity to speak. A person must be heard before any conclusion is drawn," she asserted, advocating for democratic principles and open dialogue in legislative proceedings.
Call for Support on Women's Dignity
Majithia pointed out that if the ruling party was genuinely committed to women's dignity, it should have supported a resolution brought by the Congress seeking action against the CM over his remarks. She stressed that derogatory comments against women are unacceptable and reaffirmed the respect that women of Punjab command in society, noting their role in nurturing brave sons and contributing to social fabric.
This announcement sets the stage for a potential confrontation between the opposition and the state government, with women's rights and dignity at the forefront of political discourse in Punjab.
