YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) Rajya Sabha leader Vijaya Sai Reddy on Wednesday regretted his remark against the Chair during a short duration discussion on non-implementation of Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act.
“I am sorry for the incident that happened yesterday (on Tuesday),” Sai said in the Upper House.
He said that he argued with the Chair as he was not given sufficient opportunity to explain the issue which was emotive for him.
“I met the MoS Parliamentary Affairs and explained the circumstances. My intention was not to disrespect the Chair,” he said.
Reddy expressed regret after Minister of State Vijay Goel raised the issue.
He, without taking the name, said that some member went into the well on Tuesday during the discussion on special status issue for Andhra Pradesh and used words which were against the dignity of the House.
“The House should condemn it and the member concerned should regret,” Goel said.
Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said that whatever happened was “unfortunate” and should not be repeated.
Asking the members to move on, Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu said, “It is over now” and told them to adhere to the allotted time during debates.
“Everyone has to cooperate. The issue of Andhra Pradesh was emotive for me too. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also spoke yesterday but he conveyed the message in such a manner that the purpose was served,” he said.
“It is painful for me too to stop and ask to sit down. This is not a thing which I enjoy,” Naidu added.
Reddy on Tuesday wanted more time to speak during the discussion but the Chairman stopped him as his allotted time was over.
He, then, went near the Chairman’s podium and opposed it, saying something which was not audible.