Punjab Minister Balkar Singh under fire over obscene video; Denies involvement

A video allegedly showing Punjab Minister Balkar Singh engaging in objectionable behavior has emerged on the internet. It has led to a storm of controversy. The video, shared by several BJP leaders, alleges that Singh coerced a woman into sexual acts under the guise of offering her a job.

In the video, a man resembling Balkar Singh is seen exposing himself to a woman who had reportedly reached out to him seeking employment. The BJP leaders accuse Singh of pressuring the woman to strip during a video call and exposing himself to her.

However, Minister Balkar Singh has vehemently denied any association with the video. When questioned by news agency ANI, he stated, "I have no comments, and it is not known to me."

Here's what he said:

#WATCH | Jalandhar: On his alleged viral obscene video, Punjab Minister Balkar Singh says, "... I have no comments and not in my knowledge..." pic.twitter.com/ooHTxbRaLc

— ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2024

NCW calls for investigation

In response to the allegations, the National Women's Commission (NCW) has intervened, urging the Punjab Police to investigate the matter promptly. The NCW emphasized that if the allegations are proven true, they would constitute serious offenses against the dignity of women under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

"National Commission for Women is gravely disturbed by a Twitter post allegations against Punjab MLA Mr. Balkar Singh. The reported acts, if substantiated, constitute serious violations under IPC sections 354 and 354B, directly affronting a woman's dignity," tweets National… pic.twitter.com/5MSuauWg6t

— ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2024

Political backlash

The controversy has triggered a political firestorm, with BJP leaders calling for Singh's immediate dismissal from office. They have demanded swift action from AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

BJP's accusations

Tajinder Bagga, a prominent BJP leader, was among the first to share the video. He accused Singh of exploiting a 21-year-old woman in dire need of employment, urging Kejriwal and Mann to take decisive action.

Shehzad Poonawalla renames AAP as Anti Aurat Party

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla lambasted the AAP, labeling it the "Anti Aurat Party." He drew parallels between this incident and the alleged assault against Swati Maliwal in Delhi, urging AAP leadership to address the matter.