Opposition slams govt as CISF men enter Rajya Sabha well, Rijiju justifies move

The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha on Friday adjourned without convening the scheduled business for the day amidst the Opposition’ protest against the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.

The Opposition also raised objections over the deployment of the CISF troops into the well of the House. The CISF personnel, who have been managing the security of Parliament, blocked protesting MPs from entering the well.

On behalf of the Opposition parties, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote a letter to Deputy Chairman Harivansh, raising objection on the CISF personnel trooping into the well and requested him to ensure that it did not happen in future. “We saw this yesterday and today as well. Has our Parliament reduced to such a level? We condemn it unequivocally and expect the CISF personnel will not come trooping in the well of the House in the future when members are raising important issues of public concern,” Kharge wrote.

TMC MP Derek O’Brien also criticised the government, saying what witnessed in the Rajya Sabha had never happened in the history.

As the proceedings commenced in morning, Deputy Chairman Harivansh informed the House that he had received 30 notices for adjournment motions, of which 21 were seeking discussion on the SIR in Bihar. He rejected all notices, citing precedent that led to a protest from the Opposition.

RJD leader Manoj Kumar Jha urged the Chair to allow a discussion on the issue. However, Harivansh maintained that the matter was sub-judice and that the Election Commission was a constitutional body. “This is a sub-judice matter and the rules of this House are very clear. I cannot allow (discussion),” he stated.

As the members continued the protest, the House was adjourned till 12 noon. When the House reconvened, Opposition members resumed their protest. Some Opposition members, including DMK’s Tiruchi Shiva, TMC’s Derek and AAP leader Sanjay Singh attempted to enter the well. Initially stopped by marshals, they eventually pushed past the blockade, leading to the House’s adjournment for the day.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju refuted the Opposition’s allegations. Addressing a press conference, he clarified that it was the MPs themselves who had demanded increased security, which resulted in the deployment of CISF troops.

He, however, emphasised that no MP will be prevented from speaking. Marshals and security personnel within the House will not take any action until MPs engage in any malicious behaviour, he added.

The Rajya Sabha was scheduled to discuss the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill and the resolution for extension of President’s rule in Manipur. The private members Bills were also listed for the discussion.