Maharashtra Assembly Clash: Speaker Rahul Narvekar Takes Big Decision—All You Need To Know

Mumbai: Days after the dramatic brawl between supporters of BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar and NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad within the premises of the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar has taken decisive action.

Based on a report submitted by the House Security Committee, Narvekar confirmed on Friday that criminal charges are being pursued against Nitin Hindurao Deshmukh (41), a known associate of Awhad, and Sarjerao Baban Takle (37), the maternal uncle of Padalkar. The Speaker further stated that their cases have been referred to the Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee for action on grounds of breach of privilege.

The fight took place on July 17 at 5:45 pm, at the main porch of the Vidhan Bhavan, while a session was in progress. The two men entered without any official permission or valid passes, and reportedly began physically assaulting each other, prompting immediate security intervention.

“This incident is extremely serious and unprecedented in the history of the House,” Narvekar said. He noted that such behaviour tarnishes the reputation of the legislature and undermines the dignity of elected office. “The Vidhan Sabha is a temple of democracy. Members have a duty to preserve its sanctity,” he asserted.

The Speaker also raised concerns over MLAs bringing unverified visitors into the Assembly premises. “There is no need for members to bring intrusive outsiders here. If they do, they are fully responsible for their behaviour,” he said. The presence of such individuals, without accountability, poses a risk to the security and dignity of the House, Narvekar stressed.

As part of the disciplinary action, both Awhad and Padalkar have been asked to express regret in the House for allowing their affiliates to enter and escalate tensions. The Speaker has also urged all members to ensure such incidents are not repeated.

Narvekar’s firm stance signals a renewed focus on discipline, ethics, and the sanctity of democratic institutions.