Hyderabad, Mar 20 (TNT): The Anti-Terrorism Forum (ATF) on Friday submitted a representation to Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla seeking stringent action against members of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) for allegedly staging a walkout during the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ in the State Legislature.
In a letter to the Governor , ATF Chairman Dr. Ravinuthala Shashidhar said the incident took place on March 16 during the Budget Session when ‘Vande Mataram’ was played before and after the Governor’s address.
The forum alleged that several AIMIM legislators deliberately exited the House as the national song commenced and returned only after it concluded, while remaining present for the state song ‘Jaya Jaya He Telangana’.
Describing the act as a “grave violation of legislative protocol and national decorum”, the ATF said the playing of ‘Vande Mataram’ is in accordance with established procedures and government directives, and that a walkout during such a solemn moment undermines the dignity of the Legislature.
It further stated that such conduct during a joint session addressed by the Governor amounts to a breach of the Rules of Procedure and sends a negative message to citizens.
Calling the act more than political dissent, the forum said it reflects a symbolic rejection of a song associated with India’s freedom movement and national identity.
The ATF urged the Governor to take appropriate action against the members concerned to uphold the sanctity of national symbols and maintain decorum in the “Temple of Democracy”.
In similar representations submitted separately to the Telangana Legislative Assembly Speaker and the Legislative Council Chairman, the forum sought necessary disciplinary action against the AIMIM legislators.
TNT TS
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