Chandigarh, March 16: The Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Monday unanimously passed a historic resolution urging the Union Government to posthumously confer the Bharat Ratna upon the eminent social reformer and political leader, Babu Kanshi Ram. The resolution, moved by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, received across-the-board support from all political parties during the final day of the Budget Session.
Paying a heartfelt tribute, Minister Cheema declared that Babu Kanshi Ram played a monumental role in championing the ideology of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and bringing the message of socio-economic equality to the masses. He maintained that the leader was a symbol of unparalleled integrity who lived and died without any personal property or bank accounts. The Minister asserted that Kanshi Ram’s decision to sacrifice a stable career as a gazetted officer to fight caste-based discrimination remains a profound inspiration for the nation.
The Finance Minister affirmed that the Punjab Government is already working to preserve the leader’s legacy. He declared that a ₹2 crore grant has been allocated to upgrade and rename a school in Ropar in his honor, alongside plans for a modern library and auditorium in his native village. Cheema also noted that AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal had formally raised this demand as early as 2016, highlighting the party’s long-standing commitment to the cause.
While the House remained united on the Bharat Ratna resolution, the proceedings witnessed brief friction when a censure motion was moved against the Leader of the Opposition. However, the administration maintained its focus on the day’s legislative business, which also included the passage of two key bills. The Finance Minister asserted that the recommendation for India’s highest civilian award would be forwarded to the Centre with the full strength of the Punjab Assembly’s endorsement.
