What Did the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Say About the Brawl in Vidhan Bhavan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra Assembly Speaker expresses concern over legislative violence.
- Criminal cases filed against supporters involved in the clash.
- Privileges Committee to investigate the incident.
- New Ethics Committee to be established for enforcing conduct standards.
- Legislators urged to maintain decorum amidst public scrutiny.
Mumbai, July 18 (NationPress) Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar expressed significant concern regarding the recent altercation between the supporters of BJP legislator Gopichand Padalkar and NCP-SP legislator Jitendra Awhad within the premises of Vidhan Bhavan. He stated that this incident has dealt a considerable blow to the traditions and customs of the state legislature.
In his remarks, the Speaker confirmed that a criminal case has been initiated against Padalkar’s supporter Sarjerao Baban Takle and Awhad’s supporter Nitin Hindurao Deshmukh.
Additionally, he informed the assembly that the matter involving Takle and Deshmukh is being forwarded to the Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee for investigation and appropriate action due to their breach of privilege.
Narwekar urged all legislators to uphold decorum and adhere to the code of conduct both inside and outside the legislature, emphasizing that it is under public scrutiny.
Moreover, he announced the establishment of an Ethics Committee within the state legislature, modeled after the parliament, which will be empowered to enact stringent measures against members violating ethical standards and conduct codes.
He reminded the assembly that the Ethics Committee has previously taken decisive actions.
Speaker Narwekar expressed hope that both Padalkar and Awhad would convey their regret, considering the clash was contrary to the esteemed traditions of the state legislature.
Following this, Padalkar issued an apology, while Awhad remarked that the incident was indeed inappropriate. The Speaker acknowledged their gestures and permitted the continuation of legislative activities.
Earlier, Narwekar noted that unauthorized visitors entered the Vidhan Sabha premises without permission or official entry passes. It was observed that they engaged in fighting and inappropriate behavior.
“Such an occurrence is unprecedented within the Vidhan Sabha premises. There should be no need for members to introduce unauthorized individuals into the Vidhan Bhavan. If visitors come for any reason, the member must be accountable for their conduct. It is essential to hold members responsible for the inappropriate behavior of any guest,” he stated.
“In light of this unfortunate incident, I want to remind all members that while executing our responsibilities, we must uphold the highest traditions of the state legislature, often referred to as the temple of democracy. Such events should not reoccur, and legislators must exercise due diligence,” he concluded.