Brittas moves privilege motion against BJP MP over ‘lungiwala slur’
CPI(M) MP John Brittas has filed a privilege motion against BJP MP Sushmita Dev for allegedly using the derogatory term 'lungiwala' during a parliamentary session. Brittas claims the remark is a targeted slur against South Indians.
Why it matters
Highlights ongoing tensions regarding regional identity and parliamentary decorum in Indian politics.
CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas has moved a privilege motion against BJP MP Sushmita Dev, alleging that she addressed him as lungiwala during proceedings in the Upper House on Monday (August 10).
According to Mr. Brittas’ complaint, the exchange happened during a discussion on The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 on Monday (August 11, 2026).
During his intervention, Ms. Dev allegedly left her allotted seat and moved to a seat immediately behind him, near that of her party colleague Sukhendu Sekhar Roy. Mr. Brittas alleged that she repeatedly heckled him and addressed him as lungiwala .
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in