Should Ministers’ Remarks Against Sonia Gandhi Be Expunged From Assembly Records?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, V.D. Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, has demanded the expunction of derogatory remarks made by Ministers against Sonia Gandhi from Assembly records. This demand underscores the importance of maintaining parliamentary decorum and adherence to established procedures within legislative proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- Leader of the Opposition demands action against derogatory remarks.
- Calls for adherence to parliamentary decorum.
- Rule 285 prohibits defamatory statements without notice.
- Links between local issues and national leaders must be treated cautiously.
- Importance of evidence in parliamentary allegations is emphasized.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 22 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition (LoP), V.D. Satheesan, has formally approached the Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, requesting the removal of derogatory statements and accusations made by State Ministers against former Congress president Sonia Gandhi from the Assembly's official records.
Satheesan characterized these remarks as a serious violation of parliamentary decorum, indicating that the Ministers' actions contravened established protocols and longstanding traditions that govern Assembly conduct.
In his correspondence, Satheesan referenced the events that transpired during the Sixteenth Session of the Fifteenth Kerala Legislative Assembly on January 22, when members of the Opposition protested within the Assembly, calling for the resignation of the Devaswom Minister in relation to the Sabarimala gold theft incident.
He alleged that amidst the uproar, three Cabinet Ministers—Local Self-Government, Excise and Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.B. Rajesh, General Education and Labour Minister V. Sivankutty, and Health, Women and Child Development Minister Veena George—made disparaging remarks and accusations aimed at Sonia Gandhi, who is a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress.
The Leader of the Opposition emphasized that Rule 285 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of the Kerala Legislative Assembly explicitly prohibits the presentation of defamatory claims against any individual on the floor without prior notification to the Speaker.
He also pointed out that it is customary for such notifications to be substantiated with appropriate evidence.
Satheesan cited a ruling from the Chair on June 28, 1990, which asserted that allegations made in the House must be expressed with utmost care and backed by evidence, particularly when concerning individuals not part of the Assembly. He referenced additional rulings from August 20, 1971, March 22, 1973, and November 20, 1986, which further reinforce this standard.
Condemning the Ministers’ comments as unfounded and irresponsible, Satheesan remarked on the inappropriateness of linking Sonia Gandhi—who is not a member of the Kerala Assembly and is known for her exemplary political history and public service—to the Sabarimala gold theft without any prior notice or evidence.
Invoking Rule 307, the Leader of the Opposition called upon the Speaker to remove these remarks from the Assembly records, halt the broadcast of the footage on Assembly TV, and issue firm directives to Ministers to avoid future breaches of these rules.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the delicate nature of parliamentary discourse. The call for the expunction of remarks made against Sonia Gandhi highlights the ongoing tensions within Kerala's political landscape, reinforcing the need for adherence to established procedures and respectful dialogue among leaders.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted V.D. Satheesan to write to the Speaker?
V.D. Satheesan wrote to the Speaker to demand the removal of derogatory remarks made by Ministers against Sonia Gandhi, which he considers a violation of parliamentary rules.
What are the implications of Rule 285?
Rule 285 prohibits raising defamatory allegations against any individual on the Assembly floor without prior notice, ensuring a standard of respect and accountability.
What was the context of the remarks made by the Ministers?
The remarks were made during a protest by Opposition members over the Sabarimala gold theft case, leading to heated exchanges within the Assembly.
Why is Sonia Gandhi's involvement significant?
Sonia Gandhi is a prominent national leader, and linking her to local issues without evidence raises serious concerns about the integrity of parliamentary debate.
What actions did Satheesan request from the Speaker?
Satheesan requested the expunction of the remarks from the records, cessation of the broadcast, and strict instructions to ministers to prevent such violations.
