"Keeping the Assembly Clean is Our Responsibility," Says Speaker Satish Mahana
Lucknow, March 5: The Uttar Pradesh Assembly has imposed a strict ban on the consumption of pan-masala and gutka within the Vidhan Sabha premises following an incident where a legislator was caught spitting inside the assembly hall.
Announcing the ban on Wednesday, Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana declared that anyone caught violating the rule would face a ₹1,000 fine and disciplinary action.
Strict Ban on Tobacco Products in UP Assembly
Addressing the House, Mahana firmly stated:
"The consumption of pan-masala and gutka is hereby prohibited on Vidhan Sabha premises, with immediate effect. If any individual consumes pan-masala and gutka here, a fine of ₹1,000 will be imposed, and necessary action as per rules will be taken."
The decision comes after an embarrassing incident on Tuesday, where an unidentified MLA was caught spitting inside the Assembly hall after chewing pan-masala.
Speaker Personally Cleans Assembly Hall
Mahana revealed that he personally cleaned the area after receiving reports of the incident. While he confirmed watching the MLA in the video footage, he chose not to publicly name the legislator to avoid humiliating them.
"I received information that some member had spit in the Vidhan Sabha hall after consuming pan-masala. I came here and got it cleaned. I have seen the MLA in the video, but I do not want to humiliate anyone by naming them."
The Speaker urged all members to maintain cleanliness and discipline within the Assembly. He also called upon fellow legislators to stop anyone engaging in such behavior.
"Keeping this Assembly clean is our responsibility. If the MLA in question admits to their actions, it will be appreciated. Otherwise, I will have to call them."
UP Budget 2025-26 Unveiled Amid Controversy
The incident took place just days after Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna presented the state budget for 2025-26. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that this year's budget is ₹8,08,736 crore, which is 9.8% higher than the previous year.
Speaking at a press conference, CM Yogi emphasized the government's commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth.
"This budget reflects the state's strength and also shows the commitment of the double-engine government."
With the Assembly now focused on governance and maintaining decorum, the recent ban on tobacco products marks a strict stance on discipline and cleanliness inside the state legislature.
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UP Assembly, Pan-Masala Ban, Uttar Pradesh News, Satish Mahana, Gutka Ban, UP Budget 2025, Yogi Adityanath, Tobacco Ban, Cleanliness Drive, UP Politics
Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by Sandeep
