Speaker and Opposition leader clash in Kerala Assembly over cuts in SC/ST plan spending, leading to adjournment amid protests.
Thiruvananthapuram: Speaker A N Shamsheer and Opposition Leader V D Satheeshan had a confrontation in Kerala Assembly during an adjournment motion concerning significant cuts in plan spending for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities on Thursday.
The confrontation began when the Speaker requested the opposition leader to conclude his speech. Satheeshan, irritated by the repeated interruptions, accused the Speaker of deliberately trying to disrupt his address.
The matter escalated when the opposition leader alleged that Speaker was attempting to cut short his speech to appease the Chief Minister. In response, the Speaker expressed his anger, stating, "Don't talk to the Chair in this manner."
Earlier, Satheeshan cited figures to accuse the LDF government of neglecting the SC, and ST communities. At that time the Speaker intervened and asked him conclude his remarks.
However, the opposition leader continued his speech, highlighting the inadequate utilisation of funds in projects intended for SC and ST communities including housing, education, marriage and scholarships.
As the Speaker repeatedly reminded him to conclude his speech, Satheeshan grew increasingly frustrated, asking "Why are you trying to curtail my speech? You cannot run the House in this manner."
At his juncture, opposition MLAs rushed to the well of the House, gathered around the Speaker's dais and began raising slogans. Ruling front legislators also came near the well, challenging their opposition counterparts.
Amid the ongoing protests from the opposition members, the Speaker managed to expedite the day's business in just 15 minutes before adjourning the house.
