Sawant may face breach of privilege motion from BJP

Congress leader had said CM must resign over river video

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will move a breach of privilege motion against Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant for allegedly defaming Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis by raising questions over his participation in a river conservation video produced by a private company.

The video also features Mr. Fadnavis’s wife, Amruta, and senior IAS and IPS officers. On Saturday, Mr. Sawant had said that Mr. Fadnavis should resign and action must be taken against the senior government officials for participating in a private video, violating the All India Service (discipline and conduct) Rules.

“Sachin Sawant has been constantly making allegations against the Chief Minister and is trying to defame him. We will move a breach of privilege motion against him,” said BJP MLA and spokesperson Ram Kadam.

He said Mr. Fadnavis had agreed to help the NGO River March to support the cause of saving rivers. “He has always helped similar initiatives in the past. Despite clarifications, [Mr. Sawant] has been raising questions about it, purposely trying to link it with the T-Series company and defaming the CM,” Mr. Kadam said.

‘Won’t stop’

Mr. Sawant said he will continue to ask difficult questions of Mr. Fadnavis, even if he was sent to prison.

“This threat is nothing but an attempt to oppress the Opposition’s voice. The video clearly violates the rules, and it is my duty as an Opposition member to ask questions,” he said.

The allegation

Mr. Sawant had said that as per Section 13(2)(d) of the All India Service Rules, government officials can attend programmes organised only by registered organisations with prior permission.

“This organisation called River March is not registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or any other act. It is clear that the officers have violated the rules and should face disciplinary action,” he said.