MP John Brittas Accuses Colleague of 'Lungi Wala' Remark in Parliament

MP John Brittas has raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha regarding alleged derogatory remarks made by BJP MP Sushmita Dev. Brittas stated that Dev repeatedly referred to him as a "lungiwala" on Monday, August 10, while he was addressing the House. The incident reportedly occurred as Brittas was moving a statutory resolution against the Income Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026.

What Happened

During his speech on Monday, CPI(M) leader John Brittas claimed that BJP MP Sushmita Dev rose from her seat and approached him, interrupting his address. Brittas alleges that Dev repeatedly called him "lungiwala" during this interruption. He stated that he was wearing a dhoti at the time and emphasized his pride in being Malayali and South Indian, asserting that such remarks, which promote stereotypes, are unacceptable in parliamentary discourse.

Key Facts

• CPI(M) MP John Brittas claims BJP MP Sushmita Dev called him "lungiwala" during a Rajya Sabha address on Monday, August 10.
• Brittas alleges Dev made the remark while he was moving a statutory resolution against the Income Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026.
• Brittas stated he was wearing a dhoti and expressed pride in his Malayali and South Indian identity.
• Brittas has moved a privilege notice against Sushmita Dev.
• Union Minister JP Nadda acknowledged the remark was not right but suggested Sushmita Dev should also be allowed to speak.
• Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized the need to maintain the dignity of the House.
• Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan urged members to be careful not to hurt fellow members' sentiments and to respect regional identities.

Background

The exchange prompted a privilege notice from Brittas and drew a response from senior Bharatiya Janta Party leaders. Union Minister JP Nadda stated that the party does not subscribe to such statements, differentiating between a "lungi" and a "dhoti." Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju highlighted the importance of maintaining the House's dignity. The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, CP Radhakrishnan, issued an observation cautioning members against discourteous and undignified comments, stressing the need for respect towards diverse regional cultures and identities within the parliamentary setting.