Water, files and broken mics: MCD House chaos erupts during Delhi pollution debate

A discussion on tackling Delhi's air pollution turned chaotic at the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) House on Thursday, with councillors from the BJP, AAP and Congress engaging in heated exchanges, throwing files and water, and allegedly damaging microphones. Mayor Pravesh Wahi had to be escorted to safety by marshals as tensions escalated inside the House.

The disruption began with a dispute over development funds for councillors' wards before the proceedings moved to the capital's worsening pollution crisis.

Row over development funds sparks initial confrontation

AAP councillors demanded the immediate release of development funds for their wards. Responding to their demand, Mayor Wahi announced an allocation of Rs 25 lakh and said councillors would receive a total of Rs 2 crore during the current financial year.

The announcement failed to satisfy the Opposition, which demanded that the immediate allocation be raised to Rs 1 crore. As slogans grew louder, AAP councillors moved towards the mayor's chair, forcing the House to adjourn for five minutes.

When proceedings resumed, the focus shifted to air pollution, with Opposition councillors questioning the steps taken by the civic body and the government to address the crisis.

Microphones damaged as councillors clash

The discussion soon descended into another confrontation, with BJP and AAP councillors threatening physical altercations. Videos showed AAP councillor Shagufta Zubair attempting to break the microphone installed at the mayor's chair. Leader of Opposition Ankush Narang was also alleged to have attempted to damage a microphone.

As tempers flared, councillors threw water and files, prompting marshals to intervene and escort Wahi away from the scene.

Congress-AAP exchange adds to House turmoil

A separate verbal clash between Congress leader Nazia Danish and Narang further aggravated the situation. While Danish criticised the AAP during her address, Narang accused her of being close to the BJP.

Danish responded by saying she was not Shagufta Chaudhary, who would go on to join the BJP. The remark triggered another round of heated exchanges among members.

Disciplinary committee to examine conduct

The incident has now been referred to the MCD House's disciplinary committee, which will examine the conduct of the councillors involved and decide on possible action.

Mayor Wahi indicated that suspension could be considered if recommended by the committee.

"If the committee recommends suspension, we will go ahead with that as well," he said.