Lok Sabha Speaker Warns of ‘Exemplary Punishment’ for E-Cigarette Use in House
The Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, has indicated that the use of e-cigarettes in Parliament could invite “exemplary punishment,” following a complaint by BJP MP Anurag Thakur. Thakur alleged that a Trinamool Congress member was openly using an e-cigarette during proceedings, prompting him to raise the issue with the Speaker.
Addressing the matter, Speaker Birla stated that Parliament maintains strict rules regarding decorum and conduct inside the House. He warned that any member found violating these norms, including the use of electronic smoking devices, would face appropriate disciplinary action.
The Speaker’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the health and safety implications of e-cigarettes, along with the need to maintain the dignity of parliamentary proceedings. Officials noted that the House Secretariat would review the complaint and take action if necessary. The incident has sparked discussions on whether existing rules adequately address the use of modern smoking alternatives within legislative chambers.
