The Opposition BJP on Tuesday moved a privilege motion in Himachal Pradesh Assembly against Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh for his ‘bonded labourer’ remarks against BJP MlAs.
“The language used by Chief Minister cannot be tolerated, and it undermines the authority and privilege of elected representatives of people,” said leader of Opposition Prem Kumar Dhumal on Tuesday. However, Virbhadra Singh has denied having made such remarks on the floor of House.
The privilege notice signed by BJP MlAs and newspaper clippings attached with the notice was submitted to the Speaker. “Chief Minister is leader of the house and he should have respected each and every MlA. This is not a dictatorship but a democracy and each and every MlA is equal,” added Dhumal. The leader of Opposition said that, until the Chief Minister gives public apology over his remarks, the Opposition will not participate in the proceedings of the house and will boycott the thanksgiving motion on Governor’s address.
“We feel there is no use of joining the debate or participate in the proceedings of the House as Opposition MlAs are humiliated in public or in the House. They are not even allowed to raise their voice on any issues in the House and threatened with stern action,” added Dhumal. He said that every morning, a meeting of BJP legislators will be held before the start of session and strategies will be discussed for each particular day. Meanwhile, the Government has started back door efforts to call a truce with the Opposition. Sources said that Speaker Brij Biharilal Butail is trying to make the ruling and opposition, reach a consensus, so that proceedings of the House could continue in cordial atmosphere.