MP John Brittas Files Privilege Notice Over 'Lungi Wala' Slur in Rajya Sabha
CPM MP John Brittas has moved a privilege notice against BJP MP Sushmita Dev in the Rajya Sabha, alleging a derogatory "lungi wala" remark. The incident led to a significant uproar and adjournment of the house.
Key takeaways
- CPM MP John Brittas has filed a privilege notice against BJP MP Sushmita Dev in the Rajya Sabha.
- Brittas alleges Dev made a derogatory 'lungi wala' remark against him during a parliamentary session.
- The incident caused a major disruption and an adjournment of the Rajya Sabha.
- Rajya Sabha Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan urged members to maintain decorum and respect regional identities.
- Government representatives stated they do not subscribe to such remarks and that the accused MP should be heard.
Communist Party of India (Marxist) Member of Parliament John Brittas has initiated a privilege notice against Bharatiya Janata Party MP Sushmita Dev in the Rajya Sabha. Brittas alleges that Dev made a disparaging remark, referring to him as "lungi wala," during a parliamentary session on Tuesday.
The alleged slur occurred while Brittas was speaking in the House. He stated that Dev repeatedly interrupted his speech by calling him "lungi wala." Brittas expressed pride in his regional identity as a Malayali and emphasized the value of diversity within the parliament.
The incident prompted a substantial disruption in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan called both MPs to his chamber to discuss the matter. The Treasury benches requested that Dev be permitted to speak before any decision was made.
Chairman Radhakrishnan issued a formal observation, urging members to uphold decorum and respect regional sensitivities. He noted that discourteous comments made by members can hurt the sentiments of fellow parliamentarians. The Chairman stressed the inclusive nature of Indian culture, which embraces diverse regional traditions and identities, and advised members to avoid disrespecting colleagues' cultural backgrounds.
Following the exchange and uproar, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned until 2 pm.
Responding to the allegations, Leader of the House J. P. Nadda stated that the government does not endorse such remarks and suggested that Dev should also be heard. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju added that all members are equal and that the Chairman could address matters unbecoming of the House's dignity.
Sources reviewed
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