New Delhi: While they may be warring with each other on contentious issues like the Land Acquisition Bill, MPs across the political divide have a common grouse that is making them restless whenever proceedings extend after 6 pm.
The MPs are mighty worried about their common enemy – mosquitoes. The issue has gained so much traction among MPs that it was raised with the Speaker.
Fed up with mosquito bites, members in Rajya Sabha have complained that mosquitoes are troubling them inside the House in the evening hours and have sought remedial measures like fumigation.
The issue was raised by Bollywood actress-turned-politician Jaya Bachchan while she was participating in a discussion on the General Budget.
"Sir, there is complaint... There are mosquitoes in the House after 6 PM when the House is extended. There should be fumigation," the Samajwadi Party member said.
To this, Deputy Chairman PJ Kurien said it was a good suggestion and measures will be taken in this regard.
Before the matter could settle down, Minority Affairs Minister Najma Heptulla joined Bachchan and told the Chair: "It is hurting us, sir."
In lighter vein, she added, "We all come here after getting elected but mosquitoes come just like that into the House!"
She said the Chair should protect the members from mosquitos.
IT and Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad then added while addressing the Chair, "You are the protector of the House, now you have to protect the members from mosquitoes as well."
As members enjoyed the lighter moment in the midst of the Budget debate, the Chair said the issue will be addressed.
