Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi stood up in Lok Sabha on Monday to speak on the vote of thanks. As soon as his speech began, the house erupted in chaos, overshadowing Gandhi’s attempts to speak for nearly 44 minutes. Finally, the proceedings were adjourned until 3 PM.
What Happened in the House Today?
Rahul Gandhi refuted the accusations made by Tejasvi Surya regarding the Congress's stance on Indian culture. Beginning his speech by quoting Army Chief Naravane on Doklam, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh objected, questioning the authenticity of the book Gandhi cited, claiming it was unpublished.
Speaker Om Birla advised Rahul Gandhi to quote only authentic documents. Gandhi insisted that the excerpts he showed were 100% genuine. The debate continued amidst the uproar, with the Speaker requesting Gandhi to ensure the documents' credibility.
KC Venugopal stood to defend Gandhi, who claimed that the government prevented the book from being published. Home Minister Amit Shah remarked that Gandhi himself has concluded the controversy by admitting the book was unpublished.
Commotion Over the Book
Rajnath Singh accused Gandhi of misleading the house about a book that hasn’t even been published. Following this, Nishikant Dubey raised a point of order. Speaker Birla emphasized that discussing newspaper cuttings or unpublished books isn't conventional, urging adherence to this practice.
Gandhi noted he hadn’t intended to bring it up but did so due to accusations against the Congress party. Speaker Birla reiterated rules and asked Gandhi to proceed. Gandhi once again mentioned Manoj Naravane's book. Singh requested Gandhi present the book in the house, expressing interest in viewing it. The Speaker reiterated that speaking in the house must adhere to procedures and traditions.
Gandhi Cites a Magazine Article
Gandhi mentioned citing a magazine article, causing further disruption from the treasury benches. The Defense Minister objected, stating he shouldn’t be allowed to do so. Akhilesh Yadav noted the sensitivity of China-related issues, insisting that any beneficial suggestions should be read by the opposition leader.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju remarked that the house is eager to listen. However, rebroadcasting previously made points after the ruling is disruptive. Today’s discussion is on the vote of thanks to the president’s address. Rijiju emphasized such behavior isn’t permissible.
'Why don’t you tell me what to say?'
Gandhi accused them of claiming to combat terrorism while fearing a fact. He questioned the secrecy around Doklam. Opposition’s dialogue was continually interrupted.
Referring to his rights, Rajnath Singh suggested Naravane could go to court if he believed the ban was wrong. Rahul Gandhi, after multiple interruptions, asked the Speaker, 'Why don’t you tell me what to say?.' The Speaker responded that he isn’t an advisor and asked Gandhi to respect the house’s decorum.
Proceedings Adjourned Amidst Chaos
Gandhi reiterated his intention to discuss the India-China relationship while restrictions were again imposed. The Speaker asserted that the president's speech didn’t mention China. Gandhi retorted that dismissing discussions on international relations was illogical. 'Let me speak!' he urged but was reminded of procedural norms by the Speaker.
Gandhi concluded with mentions of the Prime Minister leading to the Speaker calling Akhilesh Yadav as the next speaker, citing procedural necessity. As uproar engulfed the house, the session was adjourned.
