Uttar Pradesh Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana has imposed a ban on the consumption of gutka and pan masala within the assembly premises. The move comes after an MLA was caught spitting tobacco inside the assembly hall, prompting swift action from the speaker.
Announcing the decision on Wednesday, Mahana stated that any individual found consuming these tobacco products within the Vidhan Sabha premises will be fined ₹1,000. He also warned that further action would be taken as per the rules.
“The consumption of pan-masala and gutka is hereby prohibited on Vidhan Sabha premises, with immediate effect. If any individual consumes pan-masala and gutka on Vidhan Sabha premises, a fine of ₹1,000 will be imposed on them, and necessary action as per rule will be taken against them,” Mahana declared.
Incident That Led to the Ban
The decision came after a disturbing incident where an unidentified MLA was caught spitting inside the assembly hall after consuming pan masala. The speaker, expressing his concern, revealed that he personally oversaw the cleaning of the area where the MLA had spit.
“This morning, I received information that in this hall of our Vidhan Sabha, a member had spit after consuming pan masala. So, I came here and got it cleaned. I have seen the MLA in the video. But I do not want to humiliate any individual. So, I am not taking their name. I urge all members that if they see anyone doing this, they should stop them,” Mahana said in the assembly.
He further urged all legislators to maintain the cleanliness and decorum of the assembly. “Keeping this assembly clean is our responsibility. If the MLA in question comes and tells me that they have done this, it will be good; otherwise, I will call them,” he added.
Other Developments in the Assembly
Meanwhile, on February 20, Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna presented the state budget for the financial year 2025-26. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that the budget is 9.8% higher than that of 2024-25, with a strong focus on infrastructure development.
Addressing a press conference, CM Yogi said, “This budget is over ₹8,08,736 crore, which is 9.8 per cent higher than the 2024-25 budget.”
The ban on gutka and pan masala in the assembly is being viewed as a step toward maintaining hygiene and decorum in the legislative house. The move has received mixed reactions from legislators and the public, with many supporting the initiative to keep the assembly clean.
Sources By Agencies