Only sitting MLAs can use Assembly precincts: Speaker

Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Pathania yesterday said that barring MLAs, no one else was authorised to use the precincts of the Assembly while it was in session.

Pathania was responding to a question raised by Naina Devi MLA Randhir Sharma through a Point of Order in the Vidhan Sabha. “It is surprising how a former MLA was allowed to address the media outside the Vidhan Sabha to blame BJP leaders for the attack on him,” said Sharma.

“I have taken cognizance of the fact that how outsiders were allowed to use the precincts of the Vidhan Sabha while the Assembly session was going on. Only elected members can use the precincts. If a former MLA wants to address a press conference on the Vidhan Sabha precincts, he is not authorised to do so,” said Pathania, giving his ruling. He added that he would take a decision on the issue, as per the House rules.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said that it was for the Speaker to give a ruling on outsiders addressing the media outside the Vidhan Sabha.

Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur said that the former MLA could not accuse anyone for the attack on him and that, too, in the Vidhan Sabha precincts. “When the case is under investigation, he cannot accuse people of being behind the attack on him, as this can influence the probe,” he added.