The Punjab State Commission for Women summoned Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Tuesday following his alleged derogatory remarks against women.

The commission took suo moto cognisance of the issue and has requested Khaira to appear for a statement on March 12, 2026.

The notice issued to Khaira cited his social media post, which reportedly contained derogatory comments towards women while criticising the Punjab government's ‘Mukh Mantri Mavan Dhiyan da Satkar Scheme.’

In the notice, the Commission stated, “The Punjab State Commission for Women may, in exercise of its powers under Section 12 of the ‘Punjab State Commission for Women Act, 2001’, take suo moto cognisance of any matter relating to violation of the rights, dignity and safety of women. The Commission takes such matters very seriously and is committed to ensuring that the rights, dignity and status of women in Punjab are protected.”

Further, the notice highlighted, “The Commission has been informed through a video going viral on social media regarding the subject matter that Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira has made very derogatory remarks against party President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and women…. Action should be taken in this case immediately by an officer of the rank of Superintendent of Police as per the law, and instructions should be given that a statement report regarding the action taken. Sukhpal Singh Khaira and Amarinder Singh Raja Warring should be presented at the Commission office on March 12, 2026, at 11.30 AM.”

Khaira’s social media post triggered a political controversy, with Punjab Minister and AAP leader Harpal Singh Cheema calling on the Congress to expel him from the party. Cheema said, “The Congress should immediately expel him and cancel his Assembly membership. He has insulted the women. An apology would not work; he must be expelled.”