Congress MP Hanumantha Rao's farewell speech has Rajya Sabha in splits

Hyderabad: Congress MP V. Hanumantha Rao, who retired from the Rajya Sabha after serving two terms, had the House in splits when in his farewell speech, he said “late Sonia Gandhi” instead of “late Indira Gandhi”.

Mr Rao corrected himself immediately and continued to read his written speech though RS chairman Hamid Ansari tried to stop him.

While Mr Ansari was upset for ignoring his plea, BJP member Subramanian Swamy was furious with Mr Rao for alluding to the Gandhis and thanking them.

“I have been a member of the Rajya Sabha since 2004 and served two terms. My term is now coming to an end. Serving my people was a God-given opportunity for me. For this I specially thank my leader ‘Late Smt Sonia Gandhi...sorry Indira Gandhiji...Sri Rajiv Gandhiji, party president Smt Sonia Gandhi, Dr Manmohan Singh ji, and Rahul Gandhi ji,” said Mr Rao.

He added, “Sir I am thankful to UPA chairperson Smt Sonia Gandhi ji for her initiative on this.”

Dr Swamy objected to Mr Rao moving away from his speech of thanks and praising the Gandhi family.

Though Mr Ansari tried to stop him, Mr Rao continued: “My leader Sri Rahul Gandhi ji for his timely initiative and support.” When the Chair reprimanded him, Mr Rao said “Sir I was told five minutes. I should get five minutes.” Mr Ansari replied, “No you will not get five minutes. I am sorry. Your time is up...others are waiting.”

When the Congress member ignored his plea, Mr Ansari said, “This is indiscipline. A retiring member cannot do this.” Mr Rao then ended his speech saying “Jai Hind.”

Six retiring members, two from TS –V. Hanumantha Rao (Congress) and Gundu Sudharani (TD) – and four from AP, Union ministers Nirmala Sitaraman (BJP), and Sujana Chowdary (TD), Seelam Jesu Dasu and Jairam Ramesh (both Congress), along with other retiring MPs were greeted by members cutting across party lines.