Tue Apr 08 09:02:59 UTC 2025: ## AIADMK MLAs Walk Out of Tamil Nadu Assembly Over Censorship and Speaker’s Bias Allegations

**Chennai, April 8, 2025** – AIADMK legislators staged a walkout from the Tamil Nadu Assembly today, protesting what they claim is the Speaker’s bias against the opposition and censorship of their speeches during live telecasts. The walkout followed a dispute over speaking time and allegations that the live broadcast of the Assembly proceedings selectively omitted AIADMK members’ contributions.

The AIADMK members wore black as a sign of protest, claiming they were denied the opportunity to raise vital public issues. Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, argued that despite being the principal opposition party, he was denied priority in raising concerns, a privilege he believes should be afforded to his position. He specifically pointed to instances where speeches by AIADMK MLAs C. Vijayabaskar and Agri S.S. Krishnamoorthy on important issues were reportedly omitted from the live telecast.

Speaker M. Appavu defended the selective broadcast, citing a committee’s decision to only air the Question Hour, the Chief Minister’s speech, specific announcements, and ministerial responses to motions. He also suggested training for MLAs before expanding live coverage. Minister Duraimurugan stated that any mistakes in the broadcast would be rectified.

Following the walkout, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin commented on the AIADMK’s choice of wearing black, noting it was preferable to saffron. Palaniswami responded to the Chief Minister’s remarks outside the Assembly, accusing the Speaker of partiality and denying the opposition a fair voice. He reiterated the AIADMK’s belief that they were unfairly silenced. The situation highlights growing tensions between the ruling DMK and the opposition AIADMK in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

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