Deputy speaker issues summons to 16 MLAS
MUMBAI: With Eknath Shindeled faction refusing to come to the negotiating table, Maharashtra assembly deputy speaker Narhari Zirwal on Saturday began the process of disqualification of rebel legislators. Summons have been issued to 16 MLAS, including Shinde, asking them to file a written reply by Monday evening to a disqualification petition filed by Shiv Sena.
“Following the disqualification request made with the deputy Speaker, summons have been issued against you under the Members of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly [Disqualification on Ground of Defection] Rules, 1986. You can file a written reply in your defence by June 27 till 5.30 pm along with the relevant documents that you feel are necessary for reference,” said the summons issued by Rajendra Bhagwat, principal secretary, Maharashtra legislature, on behalf of the deputy speaker.
“Failing to this, a decision on the disqualification request will be taken considering that you have nothing to say,” it added.
On the other hand, the adamant Shinde camp said they would challenge the summons in court. Deepak Kesarkar, a rebel MLA, said, “The decision taken by the deputy speaker will be challenged in court as we don’t accept it. As per the constitutional provisions, a group having two-thirds of the MLAS has all the right to choose its own leader. Shinde is leading the legislative party of Sena and no one has left the party.” He further said they would seek more time to reply to the notices. “We will respond to the notices. Knowing well that it is the weekend, we have been asked to respond within 48 hours. But keeping the principles of natural justice in mind we will seek an extension of a week. There is no urgency.”
Former legislature secretary Anant Kalse, however, said the MLAS would have to reply within the stipulated time and the deputy speaker could take a decision after examining the replies in three days. The rebel group is also planning to request Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to convene a special session of the legislature to move a no-confidence motion against Zirwal.