AIADMK MP Sasikala claims threat to life, says being compelled to resign

AIADMK Rajya Sabha member Sasikala Pushpa said on Monday she was facing a "life threat" and that she was being "compelled to resign".

Sasikala, who hit the headlines for slapping DMK leader Tiruchi Siva at the airport here on Saturday, said: "I am receiving unconditional apology from Tiruchi Siva. Something was spoken against my party leader and I behaved like that."

Sasikala did not give any detailed reference to the incident, but said there was no safety for women.

"I fear threat to my life. I am being compelled to resign from my constitutional post by my leader for whom I have much gratitude."

"They are compelling me to resign from the post. I will not do it. Where is the safety for women? I have been harassed. I have been slapped by her yesterday," she said, without naming anyone.

According to reports, Sasikala visited AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa's residence on Sunday.

"In Tamil Nadu I have no safety... I need protection," Sasikala said but other AIADMK members protested.

She found support from other opposition leaders who said every member has the right to raise issues concerning her/his safety.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien asked her to write to the Chairman about the issue. He also assured other AIADMK members that reference to any person who cannot defend themselves in the house will be deleted.

Other opposition members, however, pointed out that Sasikala did not name anyone.

Sasikala is said to be close to Jayalalithaa.

Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu also responded to the issue and said: "This discussion is not going to add to the glory of house."

"A member has committed mistake treating another member, she has apologised. For two days image of Parliament was on stake. I will not raise the issue because she has expressed regrets. That should put an end to the issue," Naidu said.

"The best way is writing to the Chairman," the minister added.

--IANS

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