The Winter Session of Parliament witnessed a fresh round of controversy on Thursday when BJP leader Anurag Thakur accused a Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP of smoking an e-cigarette inside the Lok Sabha chamber. The allegation triggered protests, demands for action, and yet another moment of chaos in the House.
During Question Hour, Thakur raised the issue while asking a supplementary question, pointing to an alleged violation of the nationwide ban on e-cigarettes.
Thakur Questions House Rules Amid National Ban
“E-cigarettes are banned across the country… yet you have allowed them in the House?”
“Trinamool MPs have been sitting and smoking them for several days,” Thakur claimed, urging Speaker Om Birla to investigate the matter immediately.
Thakur pressed further, stating that a particular TMC MP had been “constantly smoking e-cigarettes in the House for the past several days.”
His remarks prompted many BJP members to stand and join the protest, demanding prompt disciplinary action.
Speaker Om Birla Asks for Written Complaint
Speaker Om Birla responded firmly, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the dignity of the House. However, he clarified that action could be taken only after receiving a formal complaint.
“If a written complaint is lodged, I will take action,” Birla said.
The Speaker’s comments helped restore order, but not before the session witnessed a brief uproar—adding to the pattern of frequent disruptions during the ongoing Winter Session.
E-Cigarettes Remain Illegal in India
India banned e-cigarettes in 2019, citing health concerns and rising youth addiction. Possessing, selling, or advertising e-cigarettes is prohibited under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act.
An e-cigarette is a battery-powered device that heats a liquid, often containing nicotine, to create an aerosol for users to inhale. Despite the ban, concerns about illegal use and online sale continue.
Winter Session Continues Amid Political Flashpoints
The Winter Session, which began on December 1 and will continue until December 19, has already seen multiple confrontations between the government and the opposition. Thursday’s incident adds another layer to the rising political tensions inside Parliament.
Whether a formal complaint will follow—or whether the accused MP will respond to the allegation—remains to be seen.