Indian MPs wear traditional mundu to protest derogatory remarks in Parliament

A controversy has erupted in the Indian Parliament following allegations that BJP MP Sushmita Dev used the derogatory term ‘lungiwala’ to refer to CPI(M) MP John Brittas during a debate. Brittas, a representative from Kerala, stated the remark was an insult to his identity and the cultural heritage of South India. In response, a privilege motion has been moved against Dev.

To show solidarity, several opposition leaders, including Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and various MPs from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, wore the traditional mundu to Parliament.

During the proceedings, Muslim League MP PV Abdul Wahab, who initially arrived in a kurta and pyjama, joined the demonstration after being informed of the protest. After briefly wearing a gifted mundu over his pyjama, he later presented the garment to BJP MP Radha Mohan Das Agarwal following an inquiry about the attire.