New Delhi, March 24, 2026
The Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Vijender Gupta, addressed the House during the ongoing Budget Session over repeated disruptions in proceedings and defended the suspension of four members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), stating that the action was necessary to maintain order and dignity in the Assembly.
Speaker Raises Concern Over Disruptions in House Proceedings
During his address, Vijender Gupta highlighted persistent disruptions that have affected the functioning of the Assembly. He stated that maintaining the sanctity of the House and the authority of the Chair must take precedence over political considerations.
The Speaker clarified that the suspension of four members was not arbitrary but was a direct consequence of their conduct. According to him, the members were involved in continuous agitation, misbehaviour, and disruptions, particularly during the Lieutenant Governor’s Address, which is considered a constitutionally significant and formal proceeding.
He emphasized that such conduct undermines the dignity of the Assembly and disrupts its core legislative responsibilities.
Letter Issued to Leader of Opposition
Vijender Gupta also issued a formal letter to Leader of Opposition Atishi, expressing concern over what he described as continued defense of “errant members” and the opposition’s conduct in the House.
In the letter, he stated that instead of condemning the actions of the suspended members, the opposition had chosen to justify their behaviour. He also raised objections to what he termed as “unparliamentary conduct” and the dissemination of misleading information regarding the reasons behind the suspension.
The Speaker reiterated that the disciplinary action was taken strictly in accordance with the Rules of Procedure of the Delhi Legislative Assembly.
Suspension Based on Rules and Constitutional Obligations
The Speaker underlined that the suspended members were initially penalized for interrupting the Lieutenant Governor’s Address, which is a constitutional obligation. He stated that the disruption of such proceedings was a serious matter and warranted immediate action.
He added that the rules governing the functioning of the Assembly provide clear provisions for disciplinary measures in cases of disorderly conduct, and the decision to suspend the members followed these established procedures.
According to the Speaker, adherence to these rules is essential to ensure orderly conduct and effective functioning of legislative business.
Opposition’s Absence from Proceedings Highlighted
Vijender Gupta further pointed out that during a meeting held on March 21, 2026, he had advised the opposition to participate in the Assembly sittings and allow the House to decide on the matter of recalling the suspended members.
However, he noted that the Leader of Opposition chose to abstain from the proceedings instead of engaging in the legislative process. He stated that such actions do not contribute to constructive debate and weaken democratic functioning.
The Speaker remarked that dragging the Chair and the House into political disputes to defend the actions of party members is not appropriate.
Rejection of Bias Allegations
Addressing allegations of being authoritarian or biased, Vijender Gupta rejected such claims and stated that the Assembly under his leadership has shown greater tolerance towards the opposition compared to previous years.
He acknowledged that a democratic institution requires space for dissent but maintained that such tolerance cannot come at the cost of repeated disruptions or disregard for rules.
The Speaker emphasized that maintaining discipline and decorum is essential for the effective functioning of the House.
Call for Constructive Participation
Vijender Gupta urged the suspended members to reflect on their actions and apologize to the House. He also called upon the opposition to participate constructively in legislative proceedings instead of avoiding them.
He stressed that elected representatives have a responsibility to their constituents and should not abandon their legislative duties. Active participation, he said, is essential to address public concerns and ensure accountability.
Focus on Upholding Legislative Integrity
The Speaker concluded by reiterating that the Assembly will continue to function in accordance with established rules and democratic principles. He emphasized that maintaining order, discipline, and respect for constitutional processes is necessary for the credibility of the institution.
The developments during the Budget Session highlight ongoing tensions between the ruling and opposition benches, while also underlining the importance of procedural discipline in legislative functioning.
