Two MPs resign, Katara expelled

Though the BJP had also petitioned the Speaker for Katara8217;s disqualification on the ground of defection, the House expelled him due to his involvement in a case of human trafficking. A House committee, which is mandated to look in to misconduct of members, had made a strong recommendation for his expulsion. The panel, headed by V Kishore Chandra S Deo, indicted him and recommended 8220;the severest of punishments8221;.

The House exclaimed with 8220;ayes8221; as the Speaker put the resolution, moved by Leader of the House Pranab Mukherjee, to vote. The resolution said Katara 8220;has committed an act of grave misconduct which has brought disrepute to and maligned the image of the entire fraternity of legislators8221;. Mukherjee said that though it was an 8220;unpleasant job8221;, he had to discharge it. He said members 8220;should be extra-careful8221; in protecting the image of 8220;this great institution8221;.

The Speaker informed the House that he had received the resignations of Madhvaraj and Chanappa on Monday and that he has accepted them.