Chandigarh, May 2
Speaking on the eve of Labour Day at a seminar held at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration (MGSIPA), Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema called upon the legal fraternity to act as the guardians of India’s democratic values while defending the constitutional framework envisioned by Babasaheb Ambedkar. The event, organised by the Law Officers of the Office of the Advocate General, Punjab, brought together members of the legal community to reflect on the enduring relevance of constitutional principles.
Paying rich tributes to Babasaheb Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary, Cheema highlighted his unparalleled contribution as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a visionary economist who played a foundational role in shaping key financial institutions of the country. Emphasising the relevance of his ideas in the present context, he stated, “Babasaheb Ambedkar not only gave India its Constitution but also laid the economic foundations that continue to guide the nation today. His vision of justice, equality, and institutional integrity must remain our guiding force.”
Raising concerns over threats to democratic institutions, Cheema underlined the increasing need for legal professionals to actively safeguard constitutional values. He said, “The true spirit of the Constitution’s preamble is currently under threat, making the role of lawyers in defending democratic institutions more crucial than ever.” He further noted that recent political developments and defections across several states, including Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat, and Goa, along with attempts involving AAP Rajya Sabha Members, reflect a worrying pattern that demands vigilance from the legal community.
Turning to the economic situation in the country, Cheema pointed to what he described as serious fiscal mismanagement by the Union Government. He stated, “The national debt has ballooned alarmingly from ₹55 lakh crore in 2014 to a staggering ₹212 lakh crore today,” adding that such trends raise serious concerns about the long-term economic stability of the country.
Criticising the recent hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices, Cheema said, “A steep increase was implemented immediately following the conclusion of elections in four states.” He added that such decisions place an unjust burden on common citizens and reflect flawed economic priorities. Highlighting governance reforms in Punjab, Cheema emphasised the steps taken under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann to institutionalise transparency and social justice. He said, “Punjab has set a national precedent by implementing a reservation policy for the engagement of Law Officers within the Advocate General’s office.” Recalling his own advocacy for the measure during his time in opposition, he expressed satisfaction that the Punjab Government has fulfilled this commitment in line with the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar.
In his concluding remarks, Cheema commended the Law Officers and Advocate General Maninderjit Singh Bedi for their consistent efforts in defending the state’s policies before the High Court. He stated, “I commend the Law Officers and the Advocate General for their steadfast dedication in defending the state’s policies. I urge you to continue formulating robust, legally sound arguments to protect the pro-people initiatives and welfare policies of the Bhagwant Mann Government.”
