Rajya Sabha Adjourned Amid 'Lungiwala' Remark Row
The Rajya Sabha adjourned after Opposition MPs protested an alleged 'lungiwala' remark made by a BJP MP against a CPI(M) member. Several MPs wore traditional attire in solidarity.
Key takeaways
- The Rajya Sabha was adjourned on August 12, 2026, due to a protest by Opposition MPs.
- The protest stemmed from CPI(M) MP John Brittas' allegation that BJP MP Sushmita Dev called him 'lungiwala'.
- Opposition MPs wore mundus and chanted slogans for 'unity in diversity' after the adjournment.
- The Chairman advised members to avoid remarks that could hurt the sentiments of fellow parliamentarians.
- The Treasury Bench requested that Ms. Dev be given a chance to present her side of the incident.
Proceedings in the Rajya Sabha were halted on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for the pre-lunch session after an uproar ensued over an allegation by CPI(M) Member of Parliament John Brittas. Mr. Brittas claimed that BJP MP Sushmita Dev had referred to him as 'lungiwala' during parliamentary discussions earlier in the week.
Following the adjournment, Opposition MPs demonstrated at the main entrance of Parliament House, wearing mundus and chanting slogans promoting "unity in diversity." Mr. Brittas brought the issue before the House, framing it as a matter of institutional dignity and respect for India's varied cultural landscape.
Mr. Brittas stated that Ms. Dev had approached his seat and repeatedly heckled him, using the term 'lungiwala' while he was presenting a statutory resolution against the Income Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, on Monday. This accusation received backing from other Opposition members, some of whom appeared in court wearing mundus.
Members on the Treasury Bench contended that Ms. Dev should have an opportunity to present her perspective. Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan advised members to refrain from comments that might offend colleagues, emphasizing the importance of avoiding remarks that could hurt sentiments and to show respect for diverse regional identities and cultural traditions.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju suggested that if Mr. Brittas had leveled accusations against Ms. Dev, she should be permitted to respond. He proposed that the Chairman could speak with both members to establish the facts if any objectionable statements were made. BJP women MPs stood in protest against the Opposition's call for action against Ms. Dev, and Leader of the House J.P. Nadda urged the Chair to allow her to present her account.
Sources reviewed
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