Pan masala banned in UP Assembly: The Uttar Pradesh Assembly has banned pan masala inside the House a day after some members were found spitting inside the premises. It is pertinent to mention that in 2017, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had imposed a ban on chewing pan, gutka and other tobacco products in all government offices in the state.
Speaker Mahana chides MLA for spitting pan masala inside UP Assembly
Earlier on Tuesday, Speaker Satish Mahana expressed displeasure after a member was found spitting pan masala on the carpet at the entrance of the main hall of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly.
As soon as the House met in the morning, Mahana said he came to know that a member has spit pan masala in the House. While he acknowledged having seen the MLA involved in the act through a video, he refrained from naming the individual to avoid public humiliation.
"I am aware who the member is. The video is available. But I do not want to publicly take a name because I do not intend to insult anyone. The member who did it should come and meet me or I will be forced to summon him," he said.
On being informed about the incident before the House proceedings began, Speaker Mahana said that he went to the spot and personally **supervised the cleaning**.
In a video, he was heard commenting that money should be taken from the member to change the carpet. Mahana told the MLAs that 25 crore people in the state have reposed their respect and faith in the Assembly, adding it is their responsibility to maintain its dignity.
Speaker announces immediate prohibition, Rs 1,000 fine for violators
Speaker Satish Mahana on Wednesday announced a strict ban on the consumption of pan masala and gutka within the Vidhan Sabha premises. Issuing a directive, Mahana stated, "The consumption of pan-masala and gutka is hereby prohibited on Vidhan Sabha premises, with immediate effect. If any individual is found consuming these substances, a fine of Rs 1,000 will be imposed, and necessary action as per the rules will be taken."
The decision comes after widespread outrage over the spitting incident, which raised concerns about cleanliness and discipline within the legislative assembly. The Speaker’s move is aimed at ensuring a clean and dignified environment in the state’s highest legislative body.
Authorities are now expected to strictly enforce the new rule, with security personnel keeping a close watch on compliance. The Speaker also urged all members and staff to adhere to the ban and maintain the decorum of the Assembly.
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