Raja Warring faces backlash for 'sexist' remark in Gidderbaha bypoll rally speech

As the campaign for the crucial Gidderbaha Assembly bypoll turns intense, a viral video of Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring  purportedly making a comment has given ammunition to the opposition to target the party.

Spearheading the attack on Warring is his bitter rival and Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu who has targeted Warring over what he alleged was a “gender-biased" comments.

What triggered the row was Warring’s comment at a recent public rally in Gidderbaha.

“My wife hits the ground (for her election campaign) daily after getting ready at 6 am and returns at 11 pm…. She is away from me now…. Please arrange a cook for me who can prepare food. After a few days (once Assembly bypoll results come), she will get busy with other functions. I won’t get to meet her then even for two minutes,” the Congress leader is heard in the video, which has gone viral on social media.

The BJP has latched onto it.

“Condemning Raja Warring’s remarks is essential because his statement not only disrespects his own wife but also exposes a mindset that undervalues and stereotypes women’s contributions in society. Such remarks are harmful as they diminish the hard work, independence and resilience of countless women who balance their professional and personal lives daily."

Bittu said: "Comments like these reinforce outdated gender norms, making it more difficult for women to pursue their goals without facing stigma or judgment. It’s crucial to challenge and call out these attitudes to ensure respect and equality for all women in the workplace and beyond.”

Bittu has been frequently campaigning in Gidderbaha for BJP candidate Manpreet Singh Badal, who is contesting against Warring’s wife Amrita. Earlier, Warring had publicly targeted Bittu by saying that the leader who had tasted defeat in Ludhiana had now come to campaign in Gidderbaha.