Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK coordinator O Panneerselvam on Monday expressed strong concerns over a demand to serve water to legislators in glass bottles instead of the traditional steel tumblers, warning that the bottles could be used as projectiles during heated debates.
Demand by DMDK Chief
DMDK chief and Vriddhachalam MLA Premalatha Vijayakanth had earlier demanded an end to the age-old practice of Assembly staff bringing water to MLAs in steel tumblers when requested. She argued that glass bottles would be more hygienic and environmentally friendly.
Speaking to reporters at the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly premises, Panneerselvam said, “People will throw them at each other. In the heat of arguments, glass bottles can become dangerous weapons. We should stick to steel tumblers which are safe.”
Safety Concerns
Panneerselvam, who has served as Chief Minister three times, recalled instances of unruly scenes in the Assembly where objects were thrown. He emphasized that safety protocols should not be compromised for aesthetic or convenience reasons.
The AIADMK coordinator also pointed out that steel tumblers have been used for decades without any health or hygiene issues. “If it isn’t broken, why fix it?” he asked.
Premalatha's Stance
Premalatha Vijayakanth, who is also the wife of late actor-politician Vijayakanth, had raised the issue during a recent Assembly session. She claimed that steel tumblers are often not cleaned properly and that glass bottles would be a better alternative.
“We are not asking for anything fancy. Just clean drinking water in a glass bottle, like in many other legislatures across the country,” she had said.
Assembly Traditions
The Tamil Nadu Assembly has a long-standing tradition of serving water in stainless steel tumblers, a practice that dates back to the pre-independence era. Staff members carry the tumblers on trays and serve MLAs at their seats upon request.
Some MLAs have informally complained that the steel tumblers are sometimes not washed thoroughly, leading to hygiene concerns. However, no official complaint has been filed with the Speaker's office.
Reactions from Other MLAs
Several MLAs from various parties have weighed in on the debate. DMK MLA from Tiruvannamalai, K. Pitchandi, said, “This is a trivial issue. We have bigger problems to discuss. Let the Speaker decide.”
Opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami declined to comment, saying the matter was not on the official agenda.
Possible Resolution
Speaker M. Appavu has not yet made a formal statement on the issue. Sources within the Assembly secretariat indicate that a committee may be formed to examine the feasibility of switching to glass bottles, considering both safety and hygiene factors.
“We have to balance tradition with modern needs. Glass bottles can be hazardous, but they are also recyclable. We need to study the matter,” a senior official said on condition of anonymity.
