Privilege motion against NCP-SP leader for ‘highly objectionable’ remarks on council chairman

Darekar argued that such comments not only insulted the chairperson but also demeaned the Legislative Council, calling it a “gross insult to the Indian Constitution.” He also highlighted that senior leaders like Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule and former Chief Ministers are or have been members of the council, questioning the presence of leaders like NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare at the rally who reportedly failed to object to More’s remarks.

Supporting the motion, Sanjay Khodke of ruling NCP regretted the lack of action often taken on committee recommendations and demanded a change in rules to empower the Privilege Committee. “The rules of the Privilege Committee should be amended to make it more powerful, to demonstrate the committee’s strength,” Khodke stated.
Shashikant Shinde NCP (SP) said that More’s behaviour was not condoned by party leader Sharad Pawar, and as the state president, he would seek an explanation from More.
Following an extensive discussion where members across parties condemned More’s statement, Deputy Chairperson Gorhe accepted the motion.

The notice has been referred to the Legislative Council Privilege Committee for further investigation. Gorhe issued an additional, separate directive to the police department to conduct an independent inquiry and file a criminal case against Suryakant More.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar when asked about the privilege motion said that More’s criticism was against Shinde as an individual and not against the position. “If other legislators feel insulted, I personally apologise. But want to reiterate that the criticism was against the individual and not on the post,” he said.