Rajasthan Assembly Speaker to Personally Examine Video of Congress MLA's Alleged Gesture
In a significant development in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, Speaker Vasudev Devnani announced on Friday that he would personally review video footage of an alleged obscene gesture made by Congress MLA Rohit Bohra during Thursday's Zero Hour proceedings. The Speaker declared that appropriate action would be taken based on his examination of the recorded material.
Speaker Emphasizes Dignity of the House and Public Scrutiny
Describing the matter as "serious," Speaker Devnani addressed the Assembly, highlighting the broad public viewership of legislative proceedings. "Nearly 8 crore people watch the Assembly proceedings on YouTube. An MLA is elected by 2 to 2.5 lakh voters. The House has its own dignity, and it must be maintained," he stated emphatically. He further clarified that if the video evidence proves the gesture was inappropriate and violated the dignity of the House, consequent disciplinary measures would follow.
BJP Legislators Demand Strict Action and Apology
The controversy was initially raised by BJP MLA Shrichand Kripalani, who called for stringent action against Congress MLA Rohit Bohra. Kripalani demanded that Bohra issue a formal apology on the floor of the House for his alleged conduct. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel strongly supported this demand, asserting that Bohra's behavior was "not in accordance with legislative decorum."
"Such behaviour is not acceptable. Action must be taken. A person indulging in such conduct is not fit to remain a member," Minister Patel declared during the heated session.
Congress Opposition Argues for Amicable Resolution
In response, Congress Legislature Party whip Rafeek Khan opposed the BJP's call for immediate punitive action. Khan referenced a past incident where he was labelled as Pakistani by BJP MLA Gopal Sharma, arguing that no action was taken by the House or ruling party despite it being an insult to the entire Assembly. "This matter should also be settled amicably," Khan contended, adding that Rohit Bohra was seated at the time of the alleged gesture, suggesting context might be important.
Sharp Exchanges and Pending Decision
The allegation triggered intense verbal exchanges between treasury and opposition benches, creating a charged atmosphere in the Assembly. With the Speaker now tasked with reviewing the video evidence, the political standoff awaits resolution. The outcome of Devnani's examination will determine whether formal disciplinary proceedings are initiated against the Congress legislator, marking a critical moment for parliamentary conduct standards in Rajasthan.
