New Delhi, March 3: In a fresh controversy at the Delhi Assembly on Monday, Speaker Vijender Gupta issued a stern warning to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Jarnail Singh over a potential breach of privilege. The dispute arose after Singh shared an unauthorized photograph from the ongoing Assembly session on the social media platform X.
Jarnail Singh, representing Tilak Nagar constituency, initially defended his action by pointing out that videos of Assembly sessions are frequently broadcasted live and shared on social media. "It is being seen for the first time in Delhi Assembly that House discussion was going on without the (presence of) ministers. Who will give a reply on behalf of the government," Singh captioned the photograph.
The incident drew sharp reactions from BJP legislators who raised objections in the Assembly and demanded immediate action from the Speaker. Responding to their concerns, Speaker Gupta clarified that while the Assembly’s proceedings are indeed live-streamed, this is done exclusively with official permission. He emphasized that sharing photographs or visuals without prior approval constitutes a violation of Assembly protocols.
When asked to apologize, Singh expressed regret for his action but did not immediately comply with the Speaker's request to delete the post. Speaker Gupta initially attempted to pacify the protesting BJP members by highlighting Singh's expressed remorse and assurance to delete the image.
However, tensions resurfaced as BJP MLAs noted that the controversial photo remained undeleted. Responding firmly, Speaker Gupta stated unequivocally that MLA Singh would face stringent breach of privilege action unless the photo was promptly removed from social media.
The incident highlights the sensitivities around the proper conduct of legislators in relation to parliamentary norms and the use of social media during legislative proceedings.