Speaker Issues Order Citing Controversial and Inflammatory Remarks
Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne today announced in Parliament that Jaffna District MP Archuna Ramanathan has been barred from having his speeches and statements broadcast live—both audio and video—during the next eight parliamentary sessions. The decision comes in response to remarks made by the MP that have sparked controversy and posed a threat to national reconciliation.
The Speaker further stated that any derogatory, uncivilized, or offensive statements made by MP Ramanathan will be removed from the Hansard records.
Reasons Behind the Ban
During today’s parliamentary session, Speaker Wickramaratne emphasized that the MP had repeatedly made statements targeting individuals—including women—as well as various social and religious groups. These statements, he said, were not only offensive but also inflammatory, leading to widespread concern among members from both the ruling and opposition parties.
The Speaker revealed that he had received multiple complaints from fellow MPs, social organizations, and concerned individuals, urging him to take strict action against MP Ramanathan’s behavior.
“As the Speaker, I have been urged on several occasions to address the issue, as these remarks have caused deep distress and outrage among many sectors of society,” he said.
Parliament’s Reputation at Stake
Expressing his strong disapproval, the Speaker stated that MP Ramanathan’s repeated use of offensive language was damaging the dignity of Parliament and tarnishing its reputation.
“A Member of Parliament holds a privileged position as a representative of the people. However, when that position is misused to make degrading and inflammatory remarks, it not only disrespects this esteemed institution but also threatens national unity,” he asserted.
Despite multiple warnings to refrain from making such remarks, the MP has continued with his controversial statements, the Speaker added.
Scope of the Ban
Following a thorough review of MP Ramanathan’s statements and their impact on national harmony, the Speaker invoked parliamentary standing orders to impose a temporary ban on live broadcasting of his speeches. The ban will be enforced during the upcoming parliamentary sittings on:
•March 20, 21
•April 8, 9, 10
•May 6, 7, 8
During these sessions, any statements made by MP Ramanathan will not be aired via parliamentary audio, video, or social media channels. Additionally, any offensive or derogatory remarks made during these sessions will be removed from the official Hansard records.
The Speaker also indicated that the decision would be reviewed, and the temporary ban may be lifted depending on the MP’s conduct in future sessions.
This unprecedented move highlights Parliament’s commitment to maintaining decorum and ensuring that parliamentary privileges are not misused to spread hate or division.
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