TN Assembly Speaker Urges MLAs to Maintain Decorum and House Dignity

The Tamil Nadu legislative assembly in Chennai witnessed lighter moments on Monday as Speaker J C D Prabhakar appealed to members of the House to uphold its dignity and avoid making remarks that invite censure or require expunging from official records.

The Speaker made the appeal while responding to a complaint raised by DMK whip E V Velu regarding digital platforms. Velu pointed out that social media platforms and YouTube channels were broadcasting remarks that had already been expunged from the assembly proceedings.

Addressing the House, Prabhakar recounted a recent interaction he had with a group of apolitical youngsters. He noted that the live telecast of assembly proceedings had sparked an interest in legislative politics among the youth.

According to the Speaker, the youngsters questioned him about why certain remarks were expunged from the record and asked whether elected members ought to refrain from making such comments in the first place.

Prabhakar requested all members, who represent the people of their respective constituencies, to conduct themselves and speak in a manner that preserves the dignity of the assembly.

The Speaker further urged both ruling and opposition whips to ensure discipline among their members. He asked them to see that legislators do not march towards the front rows or make aggressive gestures at one another during House proceedings.

Responding to the directives, Velu noted that members raising their hands or moving towards the front desk did not constitute a violation of House rules. He added, however, that entering the well of the House was a clear breach of assembly rules.