Parliament Expulsions Over the Years: A Brief History
In a recent development, Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra faces expulsion over alleged involvement in accepting cash and gifts for posing questions in the Lok Sabha. This incident has drawn attention, but history reveals that Moitra is not the first parliamentarian to be expelled. Here’s a glimpse into notable instances of expulsions:
- HC Mudgal (Congress, 1951): The first expulsion occurred in 1951 when Congress MP HC Mudgal faced expulsion on charges related to currency notes. Allegations of accepting money from trade unions led to his resignation from Parliament.
- Indira Gandhi (1978): In 1978, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi faced expulsion from Parliament. A resolution by then Prime Minister Morarji Desai garnered 279 votes in favor and 138 against, marking her expulsion for violating special rights—the first instance of a former prime minister facing such consequences.
- Subramanya Swamy (1976): During the 1976 Emergency, Jan Sangh leader Subramanya Swamy was expelled from Parliament on charges of objectionable behavior.
- Expulsion of 10 MPs (2005): A historic event occurred in 2005 when the Parliament simultaneously expelled 10 MPs on the same day over allegations related to questioning of notes. The motion, introduced by Pranab Mukherjee, was swiftly approved by Parliament.
- Chhatrapal Singh Lodha (2005): In 2005, Rajya Sabha member Chhatrapal Singh Lodha faced expulsion on similar charges related to questioning of notes.
- Vijaya Mallya (Rajya Sabha): Renowned industrialist Vijaya Mallya was expelled from the Rajya Sabha for defaulting on loans to banks.
- Rahul Gandhi (2019): Congress MP Rahul Gandhi faced expulsion for making controversial comments about Modi’s family name. The decision followed a court verdict in Surat, pronouncing Rahul guilty in this case.
While the recent incident involving Mahua Moitra adds to the list, these historical instances underscore the significance of parliamentary ethics and accountability.