Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee submitted a written apology and issued a verbal apology in the Lok Sabha on Thursday following his controversial remarks about Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla described the incident as unfortunate, emphasizing that no personal remarks should be made against fellow members.
Speaker’s Intervention
As proceedings began, ruling alliance members raised concerns about Banerjee’s remarks. Speaker Birla intervened, stating, “Whatever happened yesterday was unfortunate. No member should make personal remarks, particularly those that affect dignity and honor.” He added that disagreements are inherent to democratic processes but must not lead to personal attacks.
Birla confirmed that Banerjee had apologized in the House and provided a written apology, allowing the day’s proceedings to continue.
Incident in Question
The controversy arose on Wednesday during a discussion on amendments to the Disaster Management Act. Banerjee accused the central government of non-cooperation during the COVID-19 pandemic, which Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai refuted, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to aid all states.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia supported Rai, praising India’s role as a “Vishwa Bandhu” during the pandemic. In response, Banerjee made remarks targeting Scindia, which Speaker Birla later expunged from the records.
The heated exchange led to adjournments as treasury and opposition benches clashed over the comments.
Scindia Rejects Apology
Although Banerjee issued an apology, Scindia declined to accept it, emphasizing the importance of respecting personal dignity. “Attack us on policies, but personal attacks are unacceptable. I do not accept his apology for the personal attack on me and the women of India,” Scindia said, addressing the House.
Continued Protests and Adjournments
Despite Banerjee’s repeated apologies, protests from the treasury benches persisted, causing two further adjournments of the House. The incident underscored the need for maintaining decorum and refraining from personal attacks in parliamentary debates.
