Follow protocol at government events, spokesman tells officials

Lecturer JCD Prabhakar. | Photo credit: B. VELANKANNI RAJ

Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker JCD Prabhakar on Monday directed the Chief Secretary to issue instructions to municipal commissioners, municipal corporation commissioners, local body officials and collectors to observe the right of way and ensure that the privileges and protocol of MLAs are respected.

He said MLAs should be formally invited to all official functions organized by local bodies and district administrations. Referring to the existing government protocol, he said a copy would be sent by post to all MLAs, besides uploading a copy to their computers in the Assembly. He issued the decision while disposing of a complaint raised by Thiru. You. Ka. Nagar MLA MR Pallavi (TVK) regarding the controversy at the inauguration of the school’s government building in her constituency (which was also attended by the Mayor of Chennai).

Mr. Prabhakar said that all officials and public representatives should follow the order of precedence and discharge their duties and responsibilities accordingly.

“What happened in Thiru. Vi. Ka. Nagar seems to have happened either knowingly or unknowingly due to a misunderstanding of the priority order. No further action is required nor is there any need to refer the matter to the Privileges Committee,” he said.

“Maintain decorum”

Mr. Prabhakar also warned that privilege proceedings would be initiated against members found violating the decorum of the House. According to him, videos of some members mocking others and making faces during debates have gone viral on social media. “Such acts affect the dignity and propriety of the House. The MPs should uphold the traditions of the Assembly which remains a model for other legislatures,” he said.

The Chair reminded members that they should not comment on matters that are the subject of legal proceedings.

He warned them against personal attacks, abusive language or making baseless accusations that could disrupt the proceedings of the House.

He urged members to keep their speeches short and sweet so that the House could effectively use its time to debate and discuss important issues.

The Chairperson said that members could raise important matters relating to their constituencies either during discussions but would submit other issues in writing. Such submissions will be considered part of the proceedings of the meeting, will be recorded accordingly and copies will be provided to members. They could also be printed and distributed among the residents of the constituency.

Published – 22 Jun 2026 23:04 IST