NEW DELHI – In a sharp escalation of the friction within the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Speaker Vijender Gupta has formally directed Leader of Opposition Atishi to cease “media trials” regarding the alleged existence of a ‘Faansi Ghar’ (execution chamber) within the Assembly premises.
The Speaker’s directive comes just 24 hours before high-profile political figures—including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia—are set to appear before the Assembly’s Privileges Committee.
Evidence Over Press Briefings
The controversy ignited after Atishi publicly claimed during a press briefing that a historical execution chamber existed inside the Assembly building. In a stern letter issued today, Speaker Gupta criticized the LoP for making unsubstantiated statements that he believes undermine the Committee of Privileges.
“If such evidence exists, it must be presented formally to the Committee of Privileges rather than through the media,” the Speaker noted, asserting that public posturing interferes with the non-partisan functioning of House committees.
Key Points of the Speaker’s Directive:
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Stop Public Commentary: Atishi has been advised to avoid making further allegations in the media while the matter is under active examination.
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Produce Proof: The Speaker specifically requested Atishi to advise the summoned leaders to bring “actual proof” to their hearings.
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Respect the Process: The letter emphasizes that political statements should not impede the independent inquiry currently underway.
High-Stakes Hearing Scheduled
The timing of the Speaker’s letter is critical. Tomorrow, March 6, four prominent leaders are scheduled to testify before the Privileges Committee:
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Arvind Kejriwal
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Manish Sisodia
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Ram Niwas Goel
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Rakhi Birla
The committee is investigating whether the claims regarding the ‘Faansi Ghar’ are historically grounded or constitute a breach of privilege through misinformation.
