I have always held deep respect for the Punjab State Women Commission, @rajlali ji, and the important role it plays in protecting the dignity and rights of women. However, in the recent ₹1000 controversy, the action taken by the Commission appears selective and politically motivated.
If the Commission truly stands for the dignity of women, then the same standards must apply to everyone, regardless of political affiliation. Selective outrage only weakens the credibility of institutions that are meant to safeguard justice and equality.
One cannot ignore the fact that when controversial remarks were made by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann), many women felt that the comments were inappropriate and degrading. The explanation later given—that the remarks were about eve-teasing and character defamation rather than a love story—did little to address the discomfort many women felt. When leaders normalize such language and fail to show adequate sensitivity or remorse, it raises serious questions about the message being sent to society.
Now coming to the issue of women dancing and celebrating the announcement of ₹1000. The larger and more important question remains: Is the dignity of women now being defined only through political announcements and celebrations?
Regarding the controversy involving Sukhpal Singh Khaira, it began after he shared a post referring to a viral video of women performing Giddha while celebrating the announcement of ₹1000 per month. In his post, he questioned whether celebrating ₹1000 truly represents the proud and resilient spirit of Punjab. This comment later triggered political outrage and resulted in a notice from the Women Commission.
As a woman, my concern goes far beyond political parties. Where are these voices when women teachers, students, Anganwadi workers, and even elderly women protesting peacefully for their rights are beaten and subjected to police lathi-charges? Are those incidents not offensive? Do they not deserve the same urgency, concern, and condemnation?
Punjab has always stood for pride, courage, and self-respect. Our history is filled with powerful examples of fearless women like Mai Bhago, who fought for justice and dignity. Today, the debate should not be reduced to selective outrage or political targeting.
Welfare schemes may attract votes, but real empowerment comes from employment, quality education, safety, and equal opportunities—not from reducing proud and self-respecting people to dependency.
The people of Punjab have always lived with dignity and self-respect, and the women of Punjab have never needed charity to prove their strength.
Also, it increasingly appears that even in the Vidhan Sabha, only a selective group of women are allowed the space to speak and raise their concerns. Democracy and representation lose their meaning when voices are selectively amplified or suppressed.