# TN Speaker sends DMK MLA Markandayan to Privileges Committee

2026-08-07T18:35:24+00:00 | Politics | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar has referred DMK MLA G.V. Markandayan’s public remarks against Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and the House to the Privileges Committee, once it is constituted. The Vilathikulam MLA was arrested on July 20 after a video of his July 18 speech went viral and was released on bail on August 3. During Friday’s budget debate, ministers Nirmalkumar and Aadhav Arjuna sought action against Markandayan. The Speaker said the remarks “diminished the dignity of the House.” DMK leader E.V. Velu argued that the MLA should not be punished twice for the same offence. Markandayan later apologised, requesting the House to forget his words. The Hindu and Hindustan Times both report the Speaker’s decision.

## Coverage

- thehindu.com <https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/speaker-decides-to-refer-dmk-mlas-remarks-against-cm-vijay-to-privileges-committee/article71318142.ece>
- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/over-remarks-against-house-cm-tn-speaker-rejects-apology-to-refer-dmk-mla-to-house-panel-101786131200669.html>

Tags: Assembly privileges, DMK, G.V. Markandayan, J.C.D. Prabhakar, Tamil Nadu Assembly
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