On diplomatic immunity

It is time to codify all privileges India gives US diplomats, and share these in a statement with Parliament. Then we need to tell Parliament what privileges our Indian diplomats are allowed in the US. These should be made strictly equal and reciprocal.

We live in a global village, as former President KR Narayanan said, but we do not need a village headman. America should stop pretending to be the self-appointed Lokpal of the world.

Derek O’Brien
MP and Chief Whip in the Rajya Sabha, Trinamool Congress

Justice Ganguly should step down as chair of WBHRC

The Trinamool Congress has noted with anxiousness and concern the charges of sexual harassment against Justice (retired) Ashok Kumar Ganguly, chairman of the West Bengal Human Rights Commission (WBHRC). The charges cannot but leave an impact on public perception of his current role as chair of the WBHRC.

The Trinamool Congress has followed an approach of zero tolerance when it comes to safety and dignity of women in the workplace and the toxic phenomenon of sexual harassment. It is for those in senior positions in public life to act as role models not just in upholding standards of conduct with female colleagues but also in responding expeditiously and with sensitivity when they themselves face charges of this nature.

As such, it would be wholly incumbent upon Justice Ganguly to step down from his position as chair of the WBHRC and restore the sanctity of the office he currently holds. Public propriety and a sense of decency demand this. I therefore urge Justice Ganguly to resign as chair of the WBHRC.

Derek O’Brien
MP and Chief Whip in the Rajya Sabha, Trinamool Congress