The Lok Sabha was plunged into chaos on Wednesday following objectionable remarks made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee against Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. The incident led to repeated adjournments as the heated exchange over personal comments continued despite an apology from Banerjee.
The uproar began when Banerjee, during a discussion on amendments to the Disaster Management Act, made disparaging remarks against Scindia. The TMC MP was criticizing the central government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged a lack of cooperation during the crisis. In response, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai refuted Banerjee’s claims, emphasizing the role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in successfully managing the pandemic and offering assistance to states.
Rai also raised concerns about the West Bengal government’s obstruction of COVID-19 vaccine transportation, with allegations that the state had placed unnecessary hurdles in the supply chain. Scindia, who was in the House at the time, stood up to support Rai’s comments, highlighting India’s efforts in helping other countries during the pandemic and positioning India as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (world brother).
However, Banerjee’s remarks against Scindia were perceived as personal and inflammatory, prompting Speaker Om Birla to expunge the comments from the official records. The Speaker also called for calm in the House as the opposition and treasury benches exchanged verbal barbs.
Following the outburst, Banerjee issued a public apology, hoping to pacify the tense situation. “I apologize for my comments,” the TMC MP said, attempting to de-escalate the matter. However, Scindia rejected the apology, stating, “This was not just an attack on me but an insult to women in India,” and emphasized that personal remarks had no place in parliamentary discourse.
The controversy continued to stir tempers, with members from both sides of the aisle demanding action and raising the matter of decorum in the House. Despite Banerjee’s apology, the remarks sparked widespread outrage, with many leaders condemning the personal nature of the attack.
The incident reflects the growing polarization in Parliament, as political discourse becomes increasingly charged. The Speaker later adjourned the House multiple times to restore order and allow for further discussions.
As of now, the matter remains unresolved, with calls for disciplinary action against Banerjee continuing to echo in the corridors of Parliament. The Lok Sabha is expected to resume proceedings, but this episode has once again highlighted the deep divisions that exist within the current political landscape.
