BJP MP Rama Devi (in the Chair) and SP MP Azam Khan (R)

NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan on Thursday stoked a huge controversy in the Lok Sabha with his objectionable remarks against BJP MP Rama Devi , who was conducting the proceedings of the House in the absence of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

When Azam Khan was speaking during the debate on triple talaq bill, BJP MP (in chair) Rama Devi asked him to ignore interruptions by other members and speak to the chair.

To this, Azam Khan responded with an objectionable comment.

Parliament session live updates

The remark led to an immediate storm in the House, with the BJP members demanding an apology. The BJP MP (in chair) objected to the remarks and said "This is not the way to speak, please expunge these remarks."

Perhaps sensing the anger and the mood of the House, Azam Khan went on to say "You are very respected, you are like my sister."

However, by then the treasury benches were on their feet protesting the SP MP's remarks.

Law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Samajwadi Party member had breached all norms of decency and should apologize immediately.

Amid the uproar, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav backed Azam Khan and said: "I don't think Azam Khan ji meant any disrespect to the chair(Rama Devi). These( BJP MPs) people are so rude, who are they to raise fingers?"

Defending his remarks, Azam Khan later said that he would quit immediately if it is proved that he used any unparliamentary word.

Meanwhile, Speaker Om Birla took over the proceedings.

As he was listening to both sides, Danish Ali (BSP) walked out saying he too was not allowed to speak. Khan joined him in the walkout, saying he cannot speak when he was being insulted.

Later, members of SP and BSP walked out of the proceedings.

Urging all members to speak with caution, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said, "It is very easy for all of you to demand 'expunge this expunge that', but why should the need to expunge arise at all? Once a remark is given, it is already in public domain. Therefore, we all should speak keeping the dignity of Parliament in mind."

(With inputs from agencies)



In Video: Akhilesh Yadav defends Azam Khan over controversial remarks against BJP MP Rama Devi