INDIA Bloc Moves Privilege Motion Against Piyush Goyal in RS Over His ‘Traitors’ Remark

New Delhi: Opposition leaders of the newly formed alliance INDIA have moved a privilege motion against Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, Piyush Goyal. This motion was raised on Tuesday, citing his use of “unparliamentary language” towards them. Specifically, Goyal referred to the opposition leaders as “traitors.”

Confirming the submission of the privilege motion, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that the floor leaders of INDIA parties in the Rajya Sabha took this action. He emphasized that an apology from Goyal on the floor of the House would be expected to address the issue.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar informed the House that Jairam Ramesh had met him and reported the use of an “inappropriate word” by Piyush Goyal. In response, Goyal urged the Chair to expunge any unparliamentary remarks if they were made during the session.

Later, when the proceedings resumed at 2 pm, the Opposition leaders walked out due to Piyush Goyal’s continued refusal to apologize for his objectionable remarks.

Parliamentary privilege grants certain rights, including freedom of expression during debates, to Members of Parliament for the efficient functioning of the Parliament. If this privilege is believed to have been breached, any member of the House can raise a question of privilege. To do so, the matter must be specific, of recent occurrence, and require the intervention of the Council.