LoP Atishi writes to Speaker, alleges disparity in conduct

New Delhi, March 12

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Delhi Assembly, Atishi, has accused Speaker Vijender Gupta of blatant partisanship, citing disparity in speaking time allocation and the suspension of Opposition MLAs on Wednesday.

Ahead of the Budget session, Atishi penned a letter to the Speaker, alleging that the ruling BJP was given 86 per cent of the speaking time, while AAP MLAs were restricted to just 14 per cent. The Kalkaji MLA demanded fairness, proportionate speaking time and uninterrupted access. Atishi condemned the Speaker’s conduct, stating that by suppressing the Opposition, 44 per cent of the Delhi’s electorate has been silenced.

“In a parliamentary democracy, the Speaker serves as the impartial custodian of legislative debate. However, during the four-day legislative session under your leadership and the new government, these fundamental responsibilities were cast aside in favour of arbitrary and blatantly partisan actions,” Atishi wrote in her letter.

The former Delhi CM further accused Speaker Vijender Gupta of misusing his authority to restrict access to the Assembly premises. She highlighted that AAP MLAs, after being suspended from the House, were barred from entering the entire Assembly premises.

On February 26, when the suspended AAP MLAs tried to enter the Assembly, they were stopped at the gates by a heavy police presence, she added.

Atishi also cited an incident from the Lieutenant Governor’s address on February 25, when both the ruling party and Opposition MLAs engaged in sloganeering.

Speaker rejects charge

New Delhi: Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta on Wednesday responded to the criticism of his handling of House proceedings levelled by Leader of Opposition Atishi, describing her allegations as “baseless” and “politically motivated”.

In a letter to Atishi, Gupta defended his decision to bar suspended members from the House, citing Rule 277 and the definition of “precincts,” which he said, empowered the Speaker to designate areas where suspended members were not allowed. “Instead of apologising for your party members’ disruptive behaviour, you are finding fault with my lawful directions,” he stated.

Addressing concerns about floor time allocation, Gupta clarified that speaking time is allotted based on party strength but also depends on the number of members present. He pointed out that Opposition members were absent on three days due to their suspension.

“I intend to run the House strictly as per our rules, constitutional provisions and parliamentary conventions. However, unparliamentary conduct by any member shall be dealt with strictly,” Gupta asserted and urged cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Assembly.