Speaker-Opposition Leader face-off leads to disruption of Kerala Assembly proceedings

In the Kerala Assembly, tensions flared between Speaker A N Shamseer and Opposition Leader V D Satheesan during an adjournment motion on cuts in SC/ST plan spending. The Speaker, who often urges Satheesan to shorten his speeches, began issuing time warnings from the ninth minute, leading to friction. Satheesan, determined to continue, ignored initial warnings and listed government failures in SC/ST welfare. By the 13th minute, the Speaker interrupted again, triggering an uproar from UDF members, who stormed the well of the House. Ruling MLAs retaliated with counter-slogans. Despite repeated requests, the Speaker failed to restore order and hastily concluded the day’s legislative business in 15 minutes, which would have otherwise lasted until dusk.