NA speaker's water remarks unsettle Indian delegates

National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq's remarks on climate change and water management triggered a tense exchange involving Indian delegates during the 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town, South Africa.

Addressing a session on the role of parliamentary leadership in tackling climate change, Sadiq stressed the need for effective parliamentary oversight, democratic accountability and greater public participation in climate adaptation policies.

Without naming any country, the NA speaker also highlighted issues relating to sudden inflows of water into rivers and the blocking of water.

A sizeable Indian delegation was present in the conference hall, which listened to Sadiq's address. However, his remarks concerning water management reportedly prompted Indian delegates to seek the floor and respond.

The Indian delegates sought to intervene during Sadiq's speech, with footage showing attempts to get hold of the microphone and disrupt the proceedings.

Sources said the Indian parliamentary delegation was unaware that the NA speaker would raise the issue of water being blocked. Several members of the delegation began seeking an opportunity to speak, leading to an unusual scene in the conference hall.

The Jamaican speaker, who was hosting the conference, intervened and asked the Indian delegate either to remain quiet and allow Sadiq to complete his address or leave the hall.

The incident reportedly drew laughter among some participants, while other delegates urged the Indian representatives to listen to the Pakistani speaker's address patiently.

Despite the disruption, Sadiq continued to underline the importance of climate justice and parliamentary cooperation in addressing climate-related challenges.