Rajagopal P Swamy
P
olitical tensions are escalating in Puducherry as a second Independent legislator, P.Angalane,has submitted a notice to move a no-confidence motion against Speaker R.Selvam.This follows a similar move by another Independent MLA,Nehru alias Kuppusamy, earlier.
Angalane,who supports the BJP within the ruling NDA, sent his notice through registered post to the Assembly Secretary.
This development is significant as Angalane is aligned with three disgruntled BJP MLAs–A.John Kumar, his son Richards John Kumar, and P.M.L.Kalyanasundaram– who have been advocating for an alternative front in the upcoming Assembly elections.
While two Independent legislators alone pose little threat to the Speaker, the situation could escalate if more lawmakers join the movement.
Legal Procedure:
The Union Territories Act 1963 requires a 14-day notice and the support of at least one-fifth of the Assembly members to move a no-confidence motion.The Speaker can be removed by a majority vote of all the Assembly members.
Opposition Stand:
The DMK,the main opposition party,will consult its leadership before deciding its stance on the matter.
The Congress,however,has demanded an immediate Assembly session to address the issue.PCC chief,V. Vaithilingam emphasized the need for a decision within the House.
Political Uncertainty:
Political observers note that while this is the first attempt to remove a Speaker in Puducherry,such political maneuvering is not uncommon in the volatile political landscape of the Union Territory,especially as the next Assembly election approaches.