Bengal Assembly Speaker issues stern warning to Suvendu over privilege violation and controversial remarks | Watch

In a significant development in the West Bengal Assembly, Speaker Biman Banerjee issued a stern warning to Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari after a Privilege Motion was moved against him. The motion followed Adhikari’s remarks, in which he referred to the state government as "communal" and labeled it a "government of terrorists." The Privilege Motion was introduced by key members of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), including Chief Whip Nirmal Ghosh, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim, and Sports Minister Aroop Biswas.

Speaker Banerjee emphasized that the assembly is not weak, stressing that it will not tolerate any attempts to undermine its authority. He stated, "The assembly is not weak, and that is the message I want to convey to them." The Speaker made it clear that while any member of the assembly is entitled to express opinions, criticism of matters directly related to the assembly would be addressed accordingly. Banerjee's remarks underscored the assembly’s position on protecting its dignity.

Banerjee also pointed out the potential for unrest caused by Adhikari’s provocative speech. He further warned that the assembly would not accept attempts to depict itself as a hero. He said, "The assembly will never accept attempts to portray itself as a hero." The Speaker also indicated that Adhikari should issue a public apology for his comments to avoid further conflict. The assembly, according to Banerjee, understands how to handle such situations and will take appropriate measures.

The motion to censure Adhikari’s conduct comes amid rising tensions between the opposition BJP and the ruling TMC. The suspension of four BJP legislators, including Adhikari, was also announced by the Speaker. They were suspended from assembly proceedings for the next 30 days or until the end of the current session. This suspension is part of ongoing disputes over the conduct and statements of opposition members during assembly sessions.

In addition to Adhikari, MLA Biswanath Karak was also mentioned in the Speaker's address, as he was noted to have been absent during the session when the suspension was enacted. The Speaker clarified that Karak could approach the Privilege Committee if he believed that his absence should have been considered in the decision.