Speaker to Examine DMK MLA Remarks Against CM Vijay for Privilege Breach

CHENNAI — Dairy Development Minister Vijayalakshmi has appealed to Speaker J C D Prabhakar to initiate action against DMK MLA Durai Chandrasekaran over his disrespectful and derogatory remarks against Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and Industries Minister Keerthana.

Speaking on Monday, Minister Vijayalakshmi condemned the remarks made during a party programme, stating that it was equally condemnable that the Industries Minister was spoken about disrespectfully despite being a woman. She alleged that the DMK was making such statements out of frustration over its electoral defeat and an inability to accept the new political situation.

The comments in question were made during a speech delivered at a wedding function of a DMK functionary in Thanjavur district on Sunday. DMK youth wing secretary and Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin was present on the dais during the event.

Following the remarks, the Water Resources Minister met Speaker J C D Prabhakar at his office on Tuesday morning to bring the issue to his attention and inquire whether the MLA's statements amounted to a breach of legislative privilege.

Responding to the appeal, Speaker Prabhakar confirmed that he will review the matter. He stated that even though the remarks were made outside the Assembly, he will read and examine them to determine if they affect the dignity of the House, the Chief Minister, or the Minister, and take an appropriate decision on whether action needs to be taken.