Indian star 'out of parliament'

Jaya Bachchan says the complaint is politically motivated

Veteran Indian film actress Jaya Bachchan has been disqualified from parliament on the grounds that she was holding "an office of profit".

The move follows a complaint that she was receiving a salary for another public position.

Indian President Abdul Kalam has accepted a recommendation to disqualify Ms Bachchan.

Ms Bachchan, who is the wife of Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, was a member of the upper House.

She has filed a petition in the Supreme Court in connection with the move.

The recommendation to disqualify her was made by the country's independent Election Commission

Ms Bachchan has asked the court to define what constitutes an "office of profit" under a state or federal government, the Press Trust of India reports.

The complaint against her said she was not entitled to hold the office of chairwoman of Uttar Pradesh Film Development Corporation while also being a member of parliament.

The Indian constitution bars members of parliament from holding any office of profit under the central or state governments.

Ms Bachchan says the moves against her are politically motivated.

She represents the opposition Samajwadi Party in parliament.