Maharashtra Assembly Monsoon Session: Nana Patole Suspended For One Day After Climbing Speaker's Podium, Creating Ruckus In House

Mumbai: Former Maharashtra Congress president and senior leader Nana Patole was suspended from the state Assembly for a day on Tuesday after he stormed the Speaker’s podium in protest against controversial remarks made by BJP leaders about farmers. The incident took place on the second day of the monsoon session, triggering a major uproar in the House.

What Caused Ruckus In Assembly?

The ruckus began after Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate and BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar were accused of making derogatory statements against farmers. Patole, joined by several opposition MLAs, raised slogans and walked up to the Speaker’s chair demanding an apology from the ruling dispensation. Speaker Rahul Narwekar repeatedly warned Patole to maintain decorum, but as he continued to argue near the chair, the Speaker ordered his suspension for the remainder of the day to restore order.

Patole Addresses Media After Suspension

Speaking to the press after his suspension, Patole lashed out at both the state and central governments. “Today is Farmers' Day. The arrogant Modi government and its ministers treat farmers like beggars. Those who speak for farmers are thrown out of the House, while those who insult them are honoured. Farmers are suffering due to unseasonal rains, and the government has done nothing to support them. Even crop insurance has been scrapped,” Patole said.

The Congress MLA accused the ruling BJP of being 'anti-farmer' and vowed to continue the fight for farmers’ rights despite disciplinary actions. “We will keep fighting this corrupt government. Even if we are suspended every day, we won’t stop,” he said.