Parliament Uproar Over Nishikant Dubey's Remarks on Nehru and Indira Gandhi

Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted following BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's controversial remarks regarding former Prime Ministers. The opposition has formally complained to Speaker Om Birla, alleging a violation of parliamentary decorum and demanding action against the MP.

The Lok Sabha witnessed high-voltage drama during the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address when BJP MP Nishikant Dubey made controversial remarks about former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. Carrying approximately six books to the podium, Dubey quoted various passages to support his claims, leading to a massive uproar from the opposition benches. The ensuing chaos forced the Chair to adjourn the proceedings of the House as slogans and counter-slogans filled the chamber.

Confrontation Over Historical References

During his speech, Nishikant Dubey utilized historical texts to question the legacy and decisions of the former Prime Ministers. Despite repeated interventions from Presiding Officer Krishna Prasad Teneti, who urged the member to adhere to parliamentary norms, Dubey continued his address. The opposition members vehemently protested, claiming that the remarks were derogatory and aimed at tarnishing the image of national icons. The tension escalated as members from both sides engaged in heated exchanges over the validity of the quoted texts.

Opposition Meets Speaker Om Birla

Following the adjournment, a delegation of opposition MPs met with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to express their grievances. According to sources, the delegation highlighted what they termed as 'unparliamentary behavior' by the BJP MP. The Speaker has reportedly asked the opposition to submit a formal written complaint regarding the incident, while the opposition leaders argued that the dignity of the House must be maintained and that selective quoting from books to target deceased leaders sets a concerning precedent in parliamentary history.

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges Double Standards

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the government, alleging a disparity in how rules are applied to the treasury and opposition benches. Speaking to the media, she pointed out that while Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi was previously restricted from quoting certain published materials, Nishikant Dubey was allowed to present multiple books without his microphone being cut off. She described the incident as a disrespect to the office of the Speaker and the democratic process, suggesting that the government is attempting to divert attention from pressing national issues.

Escalation on Social Media

The controversy extended beyond the walls of Parliament as Nishikant Dubey took to social media platform X to share a letter allegedly written by Jawaharlal Nehru to General Cariappa. In his post, Dubey suggested that further revelations could cause significant political turmoil for the Congress party. This move has further intensified the political standoff between the BJP and the Congress, with both parties accusing each other of distorting history for political gains.

Analysis of Parliamentary Conduct

According to political analysts, the incident underscores the increasing friction in parliamentary debates regarding historical narratives. While members have the right to express their views, Rule 352 and 353 of the Lok Sabha generally discourage making defamatory remarks against persons who can't defend themselves in the House. The current standoff highlights the challenge of balancing free speech with parliamentary decorum. The final decision on the opposition's complaint now rests with the Speaker, who will determine if the remarks should be expunged from the records.

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