Delhi Assembly Speaker, Vijender Gupta, expressed strong disapproval of the Opposition Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) members boycotting the House proceedings on the first day of the budget session. Speaker Gupta condemned the protest held by the AAP members outside the House, emphasizing that boycotting the House goes against its dignity and parliamentary decorum. He highlighted the importance of participation and dialogue in a democratic system, calling the Opposition’s decision to distance itself from the Budget Session unfortunate.
The Assembly Speaker stressed that during the presentation of the Delhi Budget, the presence and engagement of the Opposition hold significant value. He criticized the Opposition’s choice to protest outside instead of engaging in discussions, stating that it contradicts established parliamentary traditions. Gupta expressed regret over the absence of the Leader of the Opposition, Atishi, since the issue of Sikh Gurus’ desecration was raised in the last Assembly session, accusing her of obstructing the democratic process by failing to participate in House proceedings.
Emphasizing the necessity of the Opposition’s presence, especially during the Delhi Budget presentation, the Assembly Speaker denounced actions that show contempt for parliamentary traditions. He highlighted the importance of the Opposition presenting its stance and engaging in discussions on significant reports tabled in the House. Gupta condemned the insolent behavior that disrespects parliamentary traditions and undermines the authority of the Chair.
Four AAP MLAs, including Sanjeev Jha, Kuldeep Kumar, Somdutt, and Jarnail Singh, were suspended for disrupting proceedings and defying the Chair’s directives. In the 70-member Delhi Assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party holds 48 seats, while the AAP has 22 legislators.
