Chandigarh, May 1: The Punjab government convened a special session of the Assembly on Labour Day. Amid speculations of lawmakers from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaving the party, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presented the confidence motion for the Punjab government. During this occasion, the Chief Minister announced a significant gift for workers, declaring a 15 percent increase in the minimum wage, applicable in both government and private sectors.
The confidence motion was passed through a voice vote in the Assembly. During this process, the BJP, Congress, and Akali Dal staged a walkout, allowing the motion to pass unanimously. Consequently, Bhagwant Mann’s government is now secure for the next six months.
While addressing the Assembly, Bhagwant Mann asserted that the AAP remains strong and united, stating that “AAP’s broom will continue to clean Indian politics.” He emphasized that quality education can transform the lives of workers and their families. He reiterated the importance of education, noting that children from poor families are succeeding in exams, proving that every child can progress when given the right opportunities. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring quality education in government schools.
The Assembly erupted in chaos when the main opposition party, Congress, demanded breathalyzer and drug tests for Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and all lawmakers. Following a heated debate between the ruling and opposition parties during this session called on International Labour Day, Congress members staged a walkout.
Leader of the Opposition, Pratap Singh Bajwa, accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of appearing intoxicated in the House and called for an alcohol test for all lawmakers in a closed room. Congress argued that questions had been raised about the behavior and physical condition of some members during the proceedings, making medical checks essential for transparency and accountability.
After the walkout, several Congress legislators went to the Speaker’s office, insisting on the ‘alcometer’ test for all lawmakers, which heightened tensions in the Assembly complex.
The House witnessed intense exchanges, with accusations against the opposition for disrupting proceedings and diminishing the dignity of the Assembly. The Speaker had to intervene multiple times to manage the situation, while opposition parties also protested within the Assembly premises.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
