To counter the Opposition’s pressure tactics in the Rajya Sabha, the treasury benches on Thursday approached Chairman Hamid Ansari, demanding his protection to hold the session peacefully.
Requesting action against the protesting members, the NDA MPs said their rights had been infringed upon by the Opposition.
“All members are equal and our rights as members are infringed upon by such disruptions. We want to raise many important issues of public interest on the floor of the house. But disruptions and subsequent adjournments are depriving us of this opportunity. The conduct of some members of the Congress is not allowing us to discharge our duty as MPs,” the letter said.
Members of the ruling alliance urged the Chairman to consider every member as equal.
“You will appreciate that all members are equal and our rights as members are infringed upon by such disruptions... Conduct of some members of Congress is not allowing us to discharge our duty as MPs. We request you now to take action as per rules against such members, who are disrupting the House proceedings,” the letter added.
In the Lok Sabha, the BJP MPs are planning to move a privilege motion against Youth Congress workers.
‘Right to protest’ The Congress said the BJP is trying to deny the right to protest. “Where is the privilege involved? Protest is basic and fundamental right in a democracy,” said Congress leader Anand Sharma.
He added that if 25 MPs were not able to represent their constituencies, leading to a collective boycott by the Opposition, there is a concern and there is a protest. “Beyond that I cannot get into what action Privileges Committees will take,” he added.