In a significant move to uphold the decorum of India’s highest legislative body, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has formally initiated an investigation into allegations that a Member of Parliament was using a banned electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) during active House proceedings.

The controversy erupted following a formal complaint lodged by senior BJP leader Anurag Thakur, who alleged that a Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP was seen vaping inside the chamber. The Speaker, addressing a press conference on Monday, asserted that “no one has the right to undermine the dignity and sanctity of the Parliament.”

Evidence and Forensic Review

Sources indicate that the Lok Sabha Secretariat has taken the matter seriously, with reports suggesting that forensic samples were collected from the vicinity where the alleged incident took place. CCTV footage from the chamber is also being reviewed to verify the claims made by the treasury benches.

The complaint specifically mentions that the MP was “openly using” the device while seated in the House, an act described as a grave breach of both parliamentary etiquette and national law. Electronic cigarettes have been completely prohibited in India since 2019 under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act.

Political Firestorm

The allegation has triggered a fresh war of words between the ruling NDA and the Opposition. While BJP leaders have shared video snippets purportedly showing the MP in a “smoking gesture,” TMC leaders have questioned the credibility of the claims, suggesting the issue is being used to distract from larger legislative debates.

As the Budget Session approaches later this month, the Speaker has issued a stern warning to all parliamentarians to maintain the highest standards of behavior, noting that the world looks toward the Indian Parliament as a beacon of democratic values.