Rajya Sabha 'Lungiwala' Row: CPI(M) MP John Brittas Files Privilege Notice Against BJP's Sushmita Dev
The hallowed halls of the Rajya Sabha witnessed high drama as cultural identity, parliamentary decorum, and regional pride took center stage. A bitter political controversy erupted between CPI(M) MP John Brittas and Bharatiya Janata Party MP Sushmita Dev over an alleged derogatory 'lungiwala' remark, prompting formal privilege proceedings and drawing sharp admonishments from the House leadership.
The flashpoint traces back to a legislative session earlier in the week when John Brittas was actively introducing a legislative motion. According to the CPI(M) leader, the debate took an insulting turn when a ruling party member allegedly targeted his traditional South Indian attire, repeatedly hurling the label "Lungiwala" during his address.
The Clash Of Words Inside The Upper House
Addressing the House on Wednesday to formally escalate the matter, John Brittas expressed deep dismay over the incident while proudly championing his heritage. "I am proud to be Indian, South Indian, and Malayali. I love every moment of being a Malayali—our language, culture, food, and of course, our clothing," Brittas stated.
Naming Sushmita Dev directly, Brittas accused her of personal harassment and undermining parliamentary dignity. "Debates are fine, and we even fight with each other on policies. But she repeatedly called me 'Lungiwala, Lungiwala' while I was carrying out my constitutional responsibilities," he added, confirming that he had officially filed a notice of breach of privilege against the BJP lawmaker.
Defense And Reconciliation Efforts
In response to the serious allegations, Sushmita Dev strongly refuted the claims, asserting that neither she nor any members of her party intended to mock or disparage the cultural attire of any state or region. Offering a resolution, Dev expressed openness to speaking with Brittas privately to clear the air.
Stepping in to defuse the escalating tension, senior leader JP Nadda proposed that both lawmakers visit his chamber to resolve the misunderstanding amicably away from the public eye.
Chairman CP Radhakrishnan’s Stern Warning On Decorum
As parliamentary disruptions continued to draw concern, Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan stepped in with a stern advisory regarding parliamentary conduct and regional respect.
"Members, I have noticed some incidents where members have made rude and indecent remarks during the speeches of others in the House. I advise the honourable members to be careful not to hurt the feelings of fellow members," Radhakrishnan cautioned. Emphasizing that India's diverse heritage must be universally protected, the Chairman added, "Our culture is unique and includes various regional cultures. The cultural traditions and regional identities of our allies should not be disrespected."
Inviting both leaders to his chambers for a formal dialogue, the Chairman successfully restored order, though the incident has ignited a wider debate on cultural sensitivity within Indian federal politics.
