Havoc in Gujarat Legislative Assembly: Congress MLA Suspended After Chaos Over Fake Scam Issue

In the state of Gujarat, a tumultuous situation unfolded within the legislative assembly premises, revolving around allegations of counterfeit offices, spurious ghee, and counterfeit products. Members of the opposition party stormed into the assembly hall, expressing their discontent and frustration. 

The legislators representing the Congress party engaged in vociferous protests, prompting the Speaker to suspend them from the assembly sessions due to their unruly behavior and breach of decorum. Subsequently, the opposition demanded the revocation of the suspension orders issued by the Speaker, highlighting the contentious nature of the incident and the ongoing political tensions within the state.

Opposition Raises Concerns Over Misuse of Funds in Gujarat

During a media interaction, Amit Chavda, a prominent leader of the opposition in Gujarat, questioned the silence of the opposition regarding the misuse of funds amounting to 21 crores in counterfeit offices. Chavda emphasized the importance of utilizing such funds for the welfare of marginalized communities, including Dalits, Adivasis, and others, rather than allowing them to be siphoned off through fraudulent means. 

He criticized the opposition’s inaction in addressing this issue, suggesting that silence in the face of such corruption is unacceptable. Chavda highlighted instances where ministers failed to provide satisfactory responses when confronted, indicating a systemic failure to uphold legislative norms and address public concerns. He urged for accountability and transparency in governance, stressing the need to combat the pervasive culture of corruption that has plagued the state for years.

Opposition Claims Suspension Undermines Democratic Principles

The opposition has asserted that the recent suspensions in the legislative assembly undermine democratic principles. They argue that they were present at their designated places, never absent, and did not engage in inappropriate behavior, but merely protested against counterfeit scandals, as is within their rights as representatives. They emphasized that displaying dissent within the framework of rules is their prerogative as elected officials. They further criticized the attempts by the majority to suppress the voice of the people by resorting to mass suspensions, equating it to an assassination of democracy. 

They stressed the importance of their role as representatives to speak out against wrongdoing and corruption wherever it occurs. The power to raise these issues and demand accountability is fundamental to social justice and governmental transparency. Without participation in such discussions, everyone is deprived of their right to question violations of rules and regulations. Hence, they contend that suspensions made under the pretext of rule violations are unjust and counterproductive to the democratic process.

Dr. Tushar Chaudhari Accuses Government of Negligence and Mismanagement

During a session in the legislative assembly, opposition leader Dr. Tushar Chaudhari expressed concerns over the government’s negligence and mismanagement. He highlighted the issuance of barcode and cortex numbers to various departments, where the cortex number serves as a direct deposit into personal accounts. However, the government has not provided any clarification regarding the origin and purpose of these cortex numbers. 

Dr. Chaudhari emphasized that the government’s direction and intentions remain ambiguous. He pointed out the misuse of funds intended for tribal communities, leaving them deprived of essential aid and education. Dr. Chaudhari accused the ruling party of betraying tribal interests for political gains. He demanded transparent action against those responsible for misappropriation, stressing the need for accountability and fairness in governance. Dr. Chaudhari concluded by urging a unified approach to confront the government and ensure justice for all affected communities.

“In My View, This is Appropriate”: Rishikesh Patel

Education Minister Rishikesh Patel has stated that the state government takes automatic action against any department found engaging in misconduct, regardless of any complaints lodged. He emphasized that when any such behavioral patterns emerge, the government promptly intervenes. He noted that while discussions did take place within the legislature, there were no clear guidelines on when and how to carry out these discussions during the entire session. 

This led to a lack of opportunities to raise queries or submit requests formally. Minister Patel addressed this issue competently, even amidst disruptions, indicating that the process of government proceedings was underway. However, when such disruptions hindered the questioning process and prevented subsequent discussions, it created an unfavorable environment for addressing important questions and concerns. Consequently, it was deemed appropriate to adjourn the session for the day, in my view.

“No Incidents Applicable to the Tribal Department”

It has been emphasized that all initiatives of the tribal department are carried out under the supervision of competent authorities. Therefore, there are no specific incidents applicable to the tribal department. However, in terms of irrigation or water-related projects, approvals are granted, and work progresses accordingly. 

Hence, other tasks of the tribal department, such as irrigation and water supply projects, are separate from their primary responsibilities. Therefore, it was clarified that the tribal department is not involved in such tasks due to its specific mandate.

Concerns about Future Misconduct: A Matter for State Government

It has been highlighted that the state government is concerned about the possibility of such behavior in the future. It has been further stated that in the overall breakdown of fake offices, retired IS officers or current employees are involved. Every charge sheet we file is thoroughly investigated. Charges are brought forth through serious allegations and any misconduct contrary to this is rigorously addressed through the filing of charge sheets. It is made clear that any misconduct, regardless of who is involved, even if it includes fundamental government officials, is dealt with in the same manner. 

Notably, the state government, through the police, refrains from filing complaints based on information received. However, it is vigilant in ensuring that any such misconduct is dealt with swiftly. Even in aspirational district talukas, thorough investigations are conducted, and if any wrongdoing is found, the state government is prepared to take legal action through police complaints. The government is committed to holding those who abuse government funds and schemes meant for tribal areas accountable. With a firm hand, it aims to ensure that such misconduct does not occur in the future.