Delhi, India - In a controversial move, Mahua Moitra, Member of Parliament from West Bengal, was expelled from the Parliament today. The decision came after a report by a parliamentary committee recommended her expulsion for alleged unruly behavior and disruption of proceedings. The report was accepted by a voice vote, with the Opposition staging a walkout in protest.
Moitra, a firebrand leader known for her outspoken views and sharp wit, has been a vocal critic of the government. She has been involved in several heated exchanges with parliamentarians from the ruling party, leading to accusations of misconduct.
The committee's report accused Moitra of "persistent and gross disorderly conduct" and "willful disregard for the authority of the Chair." It recommended her expulsion for a period of six months, which was the maximum punishment allowed under the rules.
The Opposition, led by the Indian National Congress, condemned the move as a "blatant attempt to silence dissent." They argued that the committee's report was biased and politically motivated, and that Moitra was being unfairly targeted.
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Moitra said she was "unfazed" by the decision. She vowed to continue fighting for the rights of the people and accused the government of trying to intimidate her.
"This is a clear attack on freedom of speech and democracy," she said. "They are trying to muzzle me, but I will not be silenced. I will continue to speak out against the injustice and inequality that I see in this country."
The expulsion of Mahua Moitra is likely to further deepen the divide between the government and the Opposition. It is also likely to fuel criticism of the government's handling of dissent and its commitment to democratic principles.
