Shimla, Aug 30
BJP MLA Inder dutt Lakhanpal accused Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania today of making a politically charged statement against former Congress MLAs and three Independent MLAs during a rally in Chamba. Speaking after Question Hour, Lakhanpal raised a point of order, claiming the Speaker boasted about disqualifying six Congress MLAs and hinted at similar actions against three Independents, stating, “I have cut the throat of six MLAs and three are under the saw.”
Lakhanpal argued that such statements are unbecoming of a Speaker and urged Pathania to refrain from engaging in political activities.
In response, Speaker Pathania denied making any political statements during Assembly sessions, emphasizing that his role within the House is non-partisan. However, he asserted that outside the Assembly, he has the right to express political opinions. Pathania cited legal precedents supporting his ability to make political statements outside the House without infringing on the Speaker’s privileges.
This response sparked outrage among opposition members, who began shouting slogans and disrupting the proceedings. Despite warnings from the Speaker to follow House rules, the opposition continued their protest, ultimately forcing the Speaker to adjourn the session for lunch after only 20 minutes.
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