6 BJP MPs move privilege notice against Kharge in RS:Allege ‘derogatory’ remarks against Prime Minister

Six BJP Rajya Sabha MPs have jointly submitted a privilege notice against Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, accusing him of making derogatory and disrespectful remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and lowering the dignity of Parliament. The notice was filed under Rule 188 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha by BJP MPs Brij Lal, Mithlesh Kumar, Sumitra Balmik, Shivesh Kumar, Sikander Kumar and Nagendra Ray. According to a notification issued by Rajya Sabha Secretary-General PC Mody, Chairman CP Radhakrishnan has referred the matter to the Committee of Privileges under Rule 203 for examination, investigation and submission of a report. BJP alleges repeated disrespectful remarks The MPs alleged that Kharge had continually and deliberately used “grossly derogatory, disparaging and highly disrespectful” language against the Prime Minister. They argued that such remarks amounted to contempt of the House and undermined the dignity of Parliament and its members. The Privileges Committee, headed by Deputy Chairman Harivansh, will now examine the allegations and determine whether a breach of privilege has occurred. What is a privilege motion? A privilege motion is a parliamentary mechanism used when a member is accused of violating the privileges of Parliament or showing contempt towards the House, its members or committees. Parliamentary privileges are special rights and immunities granted to lawmakers to enable them to perform their duties without obstruction or interference. What action can be taken against Kharge? If the Committee of Privileges finds merit in the complaint, it will submit its recommendations to the Rajya Sabha. The House may then decide on the course of action. Possible penalties include seeking an apology, issuing an admonition or reprimand, or, in more serious cases, suspension from the House. However, any punishment can only be imposed after the committee’s findings are accepted by the Rajya Sabha. ​