TMC MP Saugata Roy Spotted Smoking in Parliament Premises; Union Ministers Raise Concerns

New Delhi: A new controversy has erupted in Parliament after Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy was seen smoking an e-cigarette outside the Parliament building. BJP MPs voiced their objection to the incident, sparking a heated discussion.

Union Ministers Giriraj Singh and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat confronted Roy over the act. During the exchange, the senior TMC leader reportedly remarked that while smoking is prohibited inside the building, it is allowed outside.

Expressing concern over the incident, Shekhawat said, “You are endangering public health, sir.” Giriraj Singh added that BJP MP Anurag Thakur had previously raised the issue, highlighting that e-cigarettes have been banned since 2019. “If a member smokes inside the House, it undermines the dignity of Parliament. This is highly unfortunate and reflects how little respect they have for the institution,” he said.

Saugata Roy, however, appeared to downplay the matter. He told reporters that he could not comment as he was not present in the House at the time and did not know who had smoked or filed the complaint. He added, “If it violates rules, the Speaker should investigate and take appropriate action. Why is this being politicized?” Later, he clarified that e-cigarettes could be used outside the building but not inside the House.

During the Question Hour, BJP MP Anurag Thakur asked whether e-cigarettes are allowed in the House. Speaker Om Birla responded firmly, emphasizing that no rule permits smoking inside Parliament and urged members to maintain the dignity of the institution. He added that action will be taken if a formal complaint is lodged.