BJP MP Accuses Trinamool Lawmaker of Smoking E-cigarettes in Parliament Despite National Ban

New Delhi:

Bharatiya Janata Party MP Anurag Thakur on Thursday accused an opposition lawmaker – from Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress – of smoking e-cigarettes in the Lok Sabha.

Thakur made the accusation during Question Hour, asking Speaker Om Birla if these were permitted in the House. When Birla responded negatively, Thakur claimed a Trinamool MP – whom he did not identify by name – had been "smoking e-cigarettes in the House for the past several days".

"E-cigarettes are prohibited across the country... yet they have been allowed in the House? Trinamool MPs have been sitting and using them for several days... e-cigarettes are being smoked in the House. Please investigate this matter immediately," Thakur stated.

This allegation prompted other BJP MPs to rise and voice similar complaints, causing a brief commotion that added to the often tumultuous scenes regularly witnessed in Parliament.

Birla called on House members to maintain decorum and promised action. "We must adhere to parliamentary traditions and regulations. If such matters are brought to my attention, I will take appropriate measures," he declared.

Thakur and fellow BJP MPs are expected to submit a formal written complaint.

NDTV approached another BJP leader – Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh – regarding this issue. "This (use of e-cigarettes) is unfortunate. And if an MP engages in such behavior, it is even more concerning."

E-cigarettes or vapes are electronic or battery-powered devices that heat a liquid – typically containing nicotine and flavoring additives – into an aerosol that users inhale.

These devices were completely outlawed in India under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act of 2019, which prohibits manufacturing, importing, selling, distributing, storing, or advertising them.

Notably, even possession is against the law.

However, as with many regulations in a country as vast and diverse as India, enforcement remains challenging. E-cigarettes, vapes, and the inhalable liquids can still be obtained through illegal channels.

In 2023, the central government communicated with state authorities to ensure effective compliance, highlighting cases of e-cigarettes being sold at grocery or stationery stores near educational institutions.

It is also significant that India has banned smoking in public places, including the Parliament building and grounds. The Parliament Rule Book explicitly states that smoking is "strictly forbidden".

The smoking ban in Parliament and the closure of a designated 'smoking room' in the complex previously sparked controversy in 2015, leading to complaints from MPs across party lines to then-Speaker Sumitra Mahajan.