A heated exchange unfolded in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday as BJP leader and Leader of the House JP Nadda clashed with Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge over allegations of CISF deployment near the well of the House, amid ongoing opposition protests.
Kharge, speaking on behalf of opposition parties, accused the government of deploying Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel during their protest inside the House. “We are shocked at how CISF personnel are made to run into the well of the House when members are exercising their democratic right to protest. Is this what our Parliament has come to?” he questioned, calling the act “most objectionable” and demanding that it not be repeated.
Citing past remarks by BJP veterans, Kharge added, “When Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj were Leaders of Opposition, they said disruptions strengthen democracy. We are protesting in a democratic way and will continue to do so.”
However, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh refuted the claim, clarifying that no CISF personnel were involved and only Parliament marshals—authorized to maintain order—were present.
JP Nadda responded with a sharp rebuke, saying, “If someone shouts slogans beside a speaker, that’s not democracy. I’ve been in Opposition myself. Take tuition from me on how to function as the Opposition—because you’ll be in that role for the next 40 years.”
He further accused the Opposition of creating “anarchy” in the House. “Their definition of democracy ends the moment they leave their seats and try to disrupt others. That’s not protest—it’s an attempt to create chaos.”
Supporting Harivansh’s actions, Nadda said, “The marshals were present under the Chair’s order to maintain discipline. What’s bothering the Opposition is that their unruly behavior was checked.”
Amid the confrontation, DMK MP Tiruchi Siva called for a return to constructive debate. “Why are we protesting? We are only demanding a discussion. Parliament is meant for debate, deliberation, and discussion—not suppression.”
As sloganeering continued, the Deputy Chairman adjourned the Rajya Sabha till 2 PM. (ANI)
