New Delhi, August 12, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
CPI-M Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas on Wednesday said he had moved a privilege motion against BJP MP Sushmita Dev over her alleged “lungi wala” remark, with several Opposition leaders backing him and describing the comment as an affront to India’s cultural diversity.
The issue triggered noisy scenes in the Rajya Sabha after Brittas raised it, eventually leading to an adjournment of the House until 2 p.m.
Speaking to IANS, Brittas said he had submitted a privilege motion notice against Dev, alleging that the remark stereotyped South Indians.
“I am proud to be a Malayali, I am proud to be a South Indian, and I am proud to be an Indian. We celebrate the diversity of this country,” Brittas said, arguing that such remarks were unbecoming of a Member of Parliament. He expressed confidence that the Chairman and the Committee of Privileges would take note of the matter.
CPI-M MP P. Sandosh Kumar described the issue as serious, saying political disagreements inside Parliament were part of democratic debate but members should not be targeted on the basis of their attire, food habits or culture.
AAP MP Sanjay Singh also supported Brittas, saying India’s diversity encompassed different languages, religions, communities and forms of dress. He said the lungi was an integral part of the cultural traditions of several southern states and objected to remarks that he said humiliated a member over his attire.
JKNC MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan termed the episode a “cultural attack”, arguing that every region and community in India has its own distinct traditions.
He said the alleged remark by the BJP MP amounted to an insult to the diverse cultures represented across the country.
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