Chandigarh: Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu did not appear in person before the Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes on Thursday citing personal commitments in Delhi. Instead, he was represented by advocates Ramandeep Singh and Anutej Singh during the proceedings.
Sangrur SP Rajesh Chhibber appeared before the commission, while Bittu’s legal team presented his response in the matter. After hearing the submissions, the commission adjourned the case until June 15 and directed the Union minister to appear personally at the next hearing.
The matter stems from an incident that occurred during the municipal corporation and municipal council elections on May 26 in Dhuri. During an exchange with police personnel, Bittu allegedly used certain objectionable remarks, prompting the Punjab State Commission for Scheduled Castes to take suo motu notice of the incident.
The commission subsequently issued a notice seeking an explanation from the Union minister. Bittu has since expressed regret over the remarks and publicly apologized for the incident.
The commission is expected to continue its examination of the matter at the next hearing later this month.
