Vaping row: Anurag Thakur lodges complaint with Lok Sabha speaker
What's the story
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) Anurag Thakur has lodged a complaint with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla regarding the violation of Parliamentary rules and statutory laws after he accused an unnamed TMC MP of smoking an e-cigarette in the Lok Sabha. The incident allegedly happened during Question Hour on Thursday, when Thakur claimed the MP had been "constantly smoking e-cigarettes" for several days. He said e-cigarettes are banned and asked if any such permission had been granted.
Speaker's response
Speaker Birla confirms no permission granted for e-cigarettes
Responding to Thakur's allegations, Speaker Birla confirmed that no permission had been granted for the use of e-cigarettes in the Lok Sabha. He assured that strict action would be taken if a formal complaint was lodged and the allegations were verified. The allegations have further strained the political atmosphere in the Lok Sabha, leading to brief disruptions. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari took to X, asking if it was "the Cigar Smoking TMC MP yet again??"
Political reactions
BJP MPs demand action against TMC member
Bhandari also demanded punishment under the COTPA Act 2003 and slammed silence from Congress leaders like Rahul Gandhi. Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress MP Dola Sen dismissed Thakur's allegations as "unfortunate lies" inside Parliament. Speaking to Times Now, TMC MP Kirti Azad asked the BJP to submit proof with the MP's name. "There are rules laid down in the Lok Sabha. If you are levelling any allegations on any member or party, you have to submit them to the speaker with proof."
Ban details
E-cigarettes banned in India
E-cigarettes have been banned across India for several years now, making their use a legal and procedural violation. The ban on smoking in public places, including the Parliament building and its grounds, is also strictly enforced. The Parliament Rule Book clearly states that smoking is "strictly forbidden." In 2023, the Union government had directed states to ensure effective compliance of the e-cigarette ban, especially in areas near educational institutions.