In the parliament in Rome, a heated debate over the autonomy of Italian regions spiraled into chaos on Wednesday.
What began as a typical political discussion among party members escalated into a physical altercation resembling a brawl outside a pub.
The incident has now led to disciplinary actions.
Details of the Incident
During the session, Lega MP Igor Iezzi physically assaulted Leonardo Donno, a colleague from the left-wing populist Five Star Movement.
Iezzi received a 15-day suspension from the Chamber's disciplinary committee.
Donno, who had attempted to tie an Italian flag around the neck of Regions Minister Roberto Calderoli, was suspended for four days.
Other MPs involved in the scuffle received suspensions ranging from two to eleven days.
The clash resulted in Donno being harassed by other parliamentarians, causing him to fall and requiring him to be carried out of the chamber in a wheelchair.
Debate on Autonomy
According to Die Presse, the uproar took place during a debate on a draft law regarding "differentiated autonomy," introduced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government.
The proposed reform aims to grant more autonomous powers to Italy's regions.
However, the opposition criticizes the plan, arguing that it could lead to state withdrawal from important areas such as health and education, particularly disadvantaging economically underdeveloped southern regions.
In response to the parliamentary chaos, opposition parties have announced a protest rally in Rome on Tuesday.
The demonstration is set to take place in Piazza Santi Apostoli, with most opposition parties planning to participate.
