NEW DELHI: Union minister for Finance and Shipping, Pon Radhakrishnan moved a privilege motion against SP Yathish Chandra alleging that the police officer had been disrespectful to him. The minister was referring to a stand off in Nilakkal on November 21 between him and the police officer who was in charge of security. Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said that the motion will be considered.

Detailing his version of what happened on that day, the Minister said, "When I reached Nilakkal, I was told that private vehicles were not allowed to go beyond that limit. The pilgrims were forced to take government buses to go to Pamba. I witnessed the pain and sufferings of the pilgrims. Some devotees were forced to go by govt buses. In order to give them relief, I enquired the policemen about the reason for allowing government buses but not private buses. The IPS officer in charge of that area, Yathish Chandra, intervened and he told me that private buses will not be allowed because there was a landslide earlier also and landslide was expected in the future also. Then he told that private buses will not be allowed because of hectic traffic. I asked him whether you’re allowing the private government buses. There is no congestion because of that. If you allow the private buses, how can the congestion come there? Without proper response, the SP asked in a harsh tone whether I would take the responsibility if something unfortunate happens. I see this as a mark of disrespect to an elected representative of this House", the motion reads.

The speaker allowed the minister to present this privilege motion despite opposition commotion. House was adjourned soon after.

Privilege motion will be passed on to the Privilege Committee. The motion will be considered by a 15 member meeting presided by Delhi MP Meenakshi Lekhi. Alleged person will be called for explanation. But the committee don't have any power to punish the officer.