AMN /

The Ethics Committee of the Rajya Sabha has unanimously recommended the expulsion of its member and businessman Vijay Mallya with immediate effect. Presided over by its Chairman Dr. Karan Singh, the panel has adopted a report to this effect.

Tabled in the Rjya Sabha today, the report has hoped that by taking such a stern action a message would reach the general public that Parliament is committed to take such necessary steps against erring members to uphold the dignity and prestige of the institution.

The Committee was of the firm view that taking into consideration the gravity of his misconduct, a sanction not less than termination of his membership from the House, is warranted under the circumstances.

But, the Ethics Committee decided to offer an opportunity to Vijay Mallya to explain his position in the matter in terms of the principle of natural justice. Yesterday, Rajya Sabha Chairman Mohd Hamid Ansari had turned down Vijay Mallya’s resignation on procedural grounds.

Rajya Sabha Secretary General has written to Mallya that the Chairman does not accept his resignation letter as it does not conform to prescribed procedures and does not bear signature in original. Mallya is facing a case of loan default of over Rs 9,400 crore .