Following criticism from Opposition members, Venkaiah Naidu orders review of new uniforms of Rajya Sabha marshals

New Delhi: Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday ordered review of the new military-style uniform of marshals in the House, a move which comes following criticism by some ex-Army officers and remarks of Opposition leaders. Uniforms of Rajya Sabha marshals were restyled from traditional Indian attire comprising turbans to dark navy blue and olive green military-style outfits with caps. Naidu mentioned in the House that the Secretariat of Rajya Sahba had come out with a new dress code for marshals. However, there have been suggestions and comments by politicians and well-meaning individuals on the same, he said. “I have decided to ask the Secretariat to revisit the same,” Naidu said. 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. Marshals earlier wore safari suits during summer and Indian bandgalas during the winter along with turbans. The turbans were viewed by some as colonial legacy, leading to review of the uniform. On Monday, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh had sought to raise a point on the marshals’ new uniform. “Sir, the marshals…,” he began only to be interrupted by Naidu. Ramesh, however, insisted that there has been “a very significant change” in their attire. “Okay. You always make significant point at an insignificant time,” Naidu had remarked on Monday. Some former Army officers have also criticised the new uniforms for marshals, terming them as illegal.