In a blistering attack on Delhi’s Education Minister Atishi, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has accused her of committing a grave violation of parliamentary privilege. The controversy erupted after Atishi’s recent statements targeting the Akali Dal leadership, which Badal claims crossed all ethical lines.
Badal, addressing a press conference in Chandigarh today, labeled Atishi’s conduct as ‘unprecedented and unacceptable.’ He argued that her public remarks not only insulted the privileges afforded to elected representatives but also undermined the sanctity of legislative discourse. ‘This is a direct assault on democratic norms,’ Badal thundered, demanding an immediate apology from the AAP leader.
The SAD chief detailed how Atishi’s allegations against him and his party were baseless and motivated by political vendetta. He pointed out that such behavior from a sitting minister sets a dangerous precedent, eroding public trust in governance. Badal has written to the Delhi Assembly Speaker, urging a formal inquiry into the matter.
Political observers note that this clash comes amid heightened tensions between AAP and opposition parties in Delhi. With assembly elections on the horizon, such exchanges are likely to intensify. Badal warned that his party would not tolerate any further transgressions and is prepared to escalate the issue to higher constitutional authorities if needed.
Atishi’s office has yet to respond to these allegations, but AAP leaders have previously dismissed similar criticisms as opposition tactics to derail government work. As the dust settles, the focus remains on whether this privilege issue will lead to concrete action or fizzle out in the din of political rhetoric.
This episode underscores the fragile balance between free speech and parliamentary privilege in India’s vibrant democracy, reminding all stakeholders of the boundaries that must be respected.