NEW DELHI, (IANS): A fiery exchange of words took
place in the Rajya Sabha on Friday between Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Leader
of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge over the no-trust motion moved by the
opposition parties. The verbal duel showed escalating tensions between the
ruling and opposition parties in the Upper House, as accusations of bias and
disrespect took centre stage.
Chairman
Dhankhar expressed deep disappointment over the no-confidence motion brought
against him, stating, “I am saddened that the main opposition party is
questioning my role publicly instead of following constitutional procedures.
While the opposition has the right to bring a no-confidence motion, undermining
the process through press conferences is inappropriate.”
Leader
of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge retorted, accusing the Chairman of disrespect.
“When the Chairman does not respect me, how can I respect him?” Kharge
remarked, further alleging that the Chairman encouraged ruling party MPs to
target him and his party.
In
response, Dhankhar invoked his humble roots, asserting, “I am a farmer’s son; I
will not be weak. Bring your motion -- it's your constitutional right -- but do
not derail the process.”
Kharge
retorted, “If you are a farmer’s son, I am a farmer-labourer’s son. You are
insulting us and our party members.”
The
confrontation comes against the backdrop of the no-confidence motion submitted
by opposition MPs, including Congress, accusing the Chairman of bias. They
claimed that he stifled their voices and prioritised the ruling party.
Meanwhile,
BJP MPs rallied in support of the Chairman. MP Radha Mohan Das Agrawal called
for a breach of privilege motion against those who filed the no-confidence
notice, arguing that the issue was discussed outside the House in violation of
parliamentary norms. “A 14-day notice is mandatory before moving such a motion.
Congress has a history of disrespecting the President and Vice President,” he
said.
MP
Surendra Singh Nagar framed the opposition’s no-confidence motion as
“anti-farmer,” while MP Neeraj Shekhar said, “If a farmer’s son holds such a
high post, why does the opposition have a problem?”
Congress
MP Pramod Tiwari defended Kharge, emphasising his background as a Dalit and a
farmer, only for the Chairman to interrupt, reiterating his own identity as a
farmer’s son.
The
heated debates led to chaos in the House, forcing the Chairman to adjourn
proceedings until Monday.
“Running
the House is essential for the nation and society,” Dhankhar remarked before
adjourning.
The
incident reflects the growing rift between the ruling and opposition benches,
with both sides determined to assert their positions amidst mounting tensions.
