BJP MP files privilege notice against Pappu Yadav over 'sadhu' attire in Parliament

BJP MP seeks privilege action against Pappu Yadav over 'sadhu' attire in Parliament

A fresh controversy erupted in Parliament after a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP submitted a privilege notice against Independent MP Pappu Yadav, objecting to his appearance in attire resembling that of a Hindu sadhu during the proceedings of the House.

The BJP member alleged that Pappu Yadav's choice of clothing was intended to draw attention and was inconsistent with the dignity and decorum expected inside Parliament. The notice urged the Speaker to examine whether the conduct amounted to a breach of parliamentary privilege or contempt of the House.

What prompted the privilege notice?

The row began after Pappu Yadav attended Parliament dressed in saffron robes traditionally associated with Hindu ascetics. The outfit immediately attracted attention from lawmakers and political observers, with some BJP leaders questioning whether such attire was appropriate inside the legislature.

According to the BJP MP, Parliament is a constitutional institution where members are expected to uphold established conventions and maintain the sanctity of the House. The privilege notice argues that symbolic attire should not be used in a manner that could undermine parliamentary decorum.

Pappu Yadav defends his attire

Responding to the criticism, Pappu Yadav defended his appearance, saying his attire reflected his personal beliefs and did not violate any rule of Parliament. He maintained that there is no specific dress code preventing members from wearing religious or traditional clothing.

The Independent MP also accused the BJP of attempting to create a political controversy over a personal choice instead of focusing on issues affecting the public.

What happens next?

A privilege notice is a formal mechanism through which a member of Parliament can raise an alleged breach of privilege or contempt of the House. Whether the notice is admitted rests with the Speaker, who may decide to reject it, seek further clarification or refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges for examination.

As of now, no decision has been announced on whether the notice will be admitted.

Political reactions

The issue has quickly turned into a political flashpoint, with BJP leaders insisting that parliamentary traditions must be respected, while opposition leaders have questioned whether clothing should become the subject of privilege proceedings.

The latest episode adds to a series of confrontations witnessed during the ongoing Parliament session, where procedural disputes and political exchanges have frequently overshadowed legislative business.