AIADMK's resolution seeking Speaker Appavu's removal defeated 154-63 by division vote
As many as 154 members belonging to the DMK-led ruling alliance voted against the resolution, moved by Deputy Leader of Opposition RB Udaykumar
AIADMK's resolution for removal of Speaker M Appavu from Tamil Nadu legislative assembly was defeated by a division vote (Thanthi TV)
CHENNAI: The resolution moved by the principal opposition party AIADMK in the Assembly seeking the removal of Speaker M Appavu from his office was defeated by a division of votes on Monday.
While Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami, listing several incidents in the Assembly, alleged Appavu acted partially, Chief Minister Stalin opposed the motion and said: “People will laugh at such a motion being moved by those who have lost their confidence.”
As many as 154 members belonging to the DMK-led ruling alliance voted against the resolution, moved by Deputy Leader of Opposition RB Udaykumar, which got 63 votes in favour. Members of the BJP and ally PMK abstained from both the discussion and voting on the motion. Three MLAs each of the DMK, including Minister R Gandhi, and the AIADMK were not present in the House during the discussion and voting on the motion.
Moments after the Question Hour ended on Monday, RB Udhayakumar moved the motion, which was seconded by AIADMK whip SP Velumani.
Speaker Appavu exited the House after allowing the motion for discussion as more than the statutory 35 members required to move the resolution rose from their seats, extending support to the motion.
Interestingly, the list of MLAs supporting the motion included rebel AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam and senior AIADMK MLA KA Sengottaiyan who has been subtly expressing his disgruntlement towards EPS of late. Deputy Speaker K Pichaandi occupied the Chair and oversaw the proceedings of the House thereafter.
Speaking on the motion, Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K Palaniswami listed out numerous instances when Appavu allegedly acted in a biased manner in the house and said that Appavu, who should otherwise act without prejudice towards any member of the house, was acting like a member of the ruling DMK.
Charging Appavu with even preventing the opposition MLAs from drawing attention and evoking a response from the Chief Minister and ministers on people’s issues, EPS retired to his seat after insisting that a division of votes be allowed on the motion.
Also Read: AIADMK moves resolution to remove Appavu from the post of Speaker
