Chaos in West Bengal Assembly: Speaker vs. BJP Clash

The West Bengal Legislative Assembly descended into chaos as opposition BJP legislators protested the Speaker’s decision to mute a colleague's microphone, resulting in suspensions and evictions. The BJP accused the Speaker of bias and staged a walkout. TMC members defended the actions to maintain order.

The West Bengal Legislative Assembly turned turbulent on Monday following protests from BJP legislators, upset over the Speaker's decision to turn off the microphone of their fellow member. This action led to the suspension of BJP MLA Dipak Barman and the eviction of two other saffron party lawmakers, Shankar Ghosh and Manoj Oraon.

The BJP representatives staged a walkout, alleging bias in the Speaker's actions. The controversy began when BJP MLA Hiran Chatterjee questioned the limitations placed on the public service commission's activities. In response, the Speaker asserted his authority and subsequently silenced Chatterjee's microphone as he continued speaking, sparking further outcry from opposition members.

Despite warnings, protests escalated, prompting marshals to remove Ghosh and Oraon from the chamber. Following this, all BJP MLAs walked out, tearing and throwing papers in dissent. Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari condemned the Speaker's actions as 'goondaism,' while TMC members argued the actions were necessary to maintain order.

(With inputs from agencies.)