The Uttar Pradesh Assembly has officially banned the consumption of pan masala and gutka within its premises after an MLA was caught spitting on the carpet at the entrance of the main hall. Speaker Satish Mahana, addressing the House on Wednesday, expressed his disapproval of the incident and urged all legislators to uphold the dignity of the Assembly. To enforce discipline, a fine of ₹1,000 will now be imposed on those found violating the ban. Mahana, while acknowledging that he knew the identity of the MLA responsible, refrained from naming the individual publicly, stating that his intention was not to embarrass anyone but to maintain the decorum of the legislature.

The issue came to light a day earlier when the Speaker noticed the stain on the carpet and was informed about the act. Taking swift action, he personally supervised the cleaning of the affected area before the House proceedings began. Mahana emphasized that the Assembly represents the trust of 25 crore people in Uttar Pradesh, making it imperative for elected representatives to behave responsibly. He called upon all MLAs to set an example by adhering to discipline and ensuring that such incidents do not occur again. His strong stance on the matter highlights the growing concerns over cleanliness and decorum within legislative institutions.

The decision to ban pan masala and gutka in the Assembly premises has been widely discussed, with many praising the move as a necessary step to maintain hygiene and respect for the institution. Others, however, see it as a reminder of the broader public health concerns associated with tobacco products. This incident has reignited debates over the need for stricter regulations on tobacco consumption in public spaces. While the identity of the MLA involved remains undisclosed, the enforcement of the ban signals a push towards greater accountability among lawmakers.