Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday issued a stern warning to opposition MPs protesting over the special intensive revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar and other issues, urging them to refrain from damaging government property.
Addressing the House, Birla said, “If you ask questions with the same force with which you are shouting slogans, it will be beneficial for the people of the country. The people have not sent you to destroy government property, and I request you and warn you that no member has the privilege to destroy government property.”
He further cautioned the MPs that if they continue to do this, he will have to take some “decisive decisions”.
“If you try to destroy government property, I will have to take some decisive decisions, and the people of the country will see you. Action has been taken against members for such incidents in many assemblies. I warn you again. Do not try to destroy government property. This is my request to you,” Birla said.
Following the uproar, the Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till noon.
Earlier today, the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) leaders continued their protest in Parliament premises against the SIR.
The opposition parties have been protesting against the revision of voter lists since the commencement of the Parliament monsoon session on July 21, with the treasury benches accusing the opposition of disrupting Parliament proceedings.
Calling the ongoing exercise ‘Silent Invisible Rigging’ of votes, the INDIA bloc leaders held banners against alleged ‘Vote chori.’
The protests have continued despite the Election Commission of India clarifying on the allegations on Sunday, while also asking the Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to submit a signed affidavit with proof of his claims of election rigging or apologise to the nation for his remarks.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar termed Rahul’s allegations an “insult” to the Constitution of India.
Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2 PM on Monday after opposition MPs resorted to sloganeering and disrupted proceedings in the House during Zero Hour.
Deputy Chairman Harivansh repeatedly called for order, urging MPs to allow the House to function. “Please let the House function. This is Zero Hour,” he appealed.
(ANI)