After ruckus, military-style uniform for RS marshals to be reviewed

A day after members of the Opposition and military veterans raised objections to the introduction of a new military-style uniform for marshals in the House, its chairman Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday (November 19) ordered a review into the new dress code.

The Rajya Sabha opened its historic 250th session on Monday (November 18), where the two marshalls, next to the Chair, were attired in military-style uniform. The Secretariat of the Rajya Sabha has come out with a new dress code for marshals after considering various suggestions, said Naidu.

“We have received some observations by some political as well as from well-meaning people. So I’ve decided to ask the RS secretariat to revisit the issue and come to a decision,” he added.

On Monday, when the marshals came wearing the new uniform together with aiguillette, some members commented if “marshal law was being imposed.”

Customarily, the presiding officer of the House is flanked by two marshals who march ahead of the chairman to announce the commencement of proceedings and also assist the chair in organising the desk and bringing up order papers.

Some former Army officers have also criticised the new uniforms for marshals, terming them as illegal.

Copying and wearing of military uniforms by non military personnel is illegal and a security hazard. I hope @VPSecretariat, @RajyaSabha & @rajnathsingh ji will take early action. https://t.co/pBAA26vgcS

— Vedmalik (@Vedmalik1) November 18, 2019

The marshals earlier wore safari suits during the summer months and Indian bandhgalas during the winter along with turbans.

(With inputs from agencies)