Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Master schools 'democracy saviours', recalls harrowing memory of losing legs
In his maiden address to the Rajya Sabha, the newly nominated MP also expressed gratitude to the President and Prime Minister for nominating him to the House.
Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Master delivered a powerful and emotional speech in the Upper House on Monday, using the occasion of the President’s address to school left parties on democracy. Speaking with his artificial limbs resting on the bench, Sadanand recalled the brutal incident 31 years ago in Kerala when CPM leaders allegedly attacked him, resulting in the amputation of his legs.
“I was a person with strong two legs, but now I use artificial legs. Those who were roaring about democracy now, committed an attack upon me 31 years ago in Kerala. I was returning from my uncle’s house after discussing my sister’s wedding when an organised criminal group held me from behind as I got off a bus. They cut off my legs while chanting ‘Inquilab Zindabad,’” Sadanand said, recalling the harrowing experience.
In his maiden address to the Rajya Sabha, the newly nominated MP also expressed gratitude to the President and Prime Minister for nominating him to the House.
The move sparked strong objections from the Opposition, most notably the Communist Party of India (Marxist). CPM MP John Brittas promptly rose on a point of order, arguing that showcasing prosthetic items inside the House violated parliamentary rules that prohibit the display of objects.
Sadanand Master, however, went on to attack the CPM over democracy, tolerance and humanity.
“You are always talking about democracy, tolerance and humanity. But your commitment is based on political violence and it is not good for democracy,” he added.
After frequent interruptions by Brittas, Sadanand removed his artificial limbs from the table.
Concluding his address, Sadanand said he was unable to stand while delivering his first speech in the House and attributed this to alleged torture by the CPI(M).
Leader of the House JP Nadda later urged the Chair to take note of certain “objectionable” words used by Brittas. He described the remarks as inappropriate and requested that the disputed words be removed from the official records.
Who is Sadanand Master?
C Sadanandan Master is a BJP leader from Kerala and a former teacher. He was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu on July 12, 2025. He took oath in the Rajya Sabha on July 21, 2025 and formally assumed office as a Member of Parliament.
Sadanandan is a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha. He also serves as the Vice President of the Kerala BJP.