Privilege notice against Thackeray for 'anti-Bihari' comments

New Delhi, Mar 5 (UNI) Taking exception to the derogatory comments against Biharis by Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackerey in the party mouhtpiece 'Saamna', several Lok Sabha members today submitted a privilege notice against him.

The copy of the Marathi daily has been attached with the notice submitted to the Lok Sabha secretariat.

According to the notice, Mr Thackeray's comments in the Marathi newspaper's editorial has lowered the dignity and sovereignty of the House and insulted the members, north Indians and national leaders of various political parties.

'Saamna's' editorial had commented on the debate held in the Lok Sabha over the incidents of violence against north Indians in Maharashtra and Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil's assurance that the rights of north Indians in the state would be protected.

The notice said the Shiv Sena Chief's ''commentary'' has not only violated the privileges of the members but also ''openly undermined the dignity of the House''.

Mr Devendra Prasad Yadav, Mr Sadhu Yadav, Mr Prabhunath Singh, Mr Vijay Krishan, Mr Ilias Azmi, Mr Akhilesh, Mr Surendra Goel and Mr Ramkripal Yadav are among the 18 signatories to the notice.

UNI SAA YA KP1746