Why Did Rajasthan Congress MLAs Protest in the Assembly?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Congress MLAs protested against declining law and order.
- Government was questioned on actions against adulteration.
- New fines for illegal fishing introduced.
- RIMS Bill aims to enhance medical education.
- Protests signify demands for accountability and governance.
Jaipur, Sep 8 (NationPress) The monsoon session of the Rajasthan Assembly erupted in chaos once again as Congress MLAs conducted a protest regarding the declining law and order situation.
Legislators entered the Assembly brandishing placards with slogans such as “Bhajan Sarkar Hosh Me Aao” and “Sarkari Zameenon ki Chori Band Karo”, chanting loudly within the Assembly premises.
Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully criticized the government’s efforts against adulteration, questioning Agriculture Minister Dr. Kirori Lal Meena, “Minister ji, you raided factories. How many adulterators were sent to jail? CM held a meeting in Bharatpur, but what happened?”
In reply, Agriculture Minister Meena stated, “We sealed the warehouses of two companies that were full of tagging. We also need the opposition’s support.” He assured that there is no shortage of urea in any district, including Bharatpur and Churu, although he acknowledged a minor shortage of DAP.
“We will not spare those involved in black marketing,” he continued, attributing the DAP shortage to the Ukraine war and global geopolitical conditions.
“There is no shortage of urea in the state. We will ensure there is no fertilizer shortage. Strict actions will be taken on any complaints of black market,” he emphasized.
On September 5, the House also experienced noisy protests over crop damages. Congress MLAs invaded the Well, shouted slogans, and forced adjournments after three Bills were passed amidst the uproar.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma had previously instructed ministers to assess flood-related damages in their areas, and the state government is expected to provide a comprehensive report on Monday as ministers who visited affected regions report back to the Chief Minister.
On Friday, Disaster Relief Minister D. Kirori Lal Meena’s statements regarding crop losses were interrupted by protests before completion. The government is introducing the Fisheries Amendment Bill, which imposes stringent regulations and significantly increases fines for illegal fishing. According to the Bill, the penalty for first-time illegal fishing has escalated from Rs 500 to Rs 25,000.
For a second offense, the fine has surged from Rs 1,000 to Rs 50,000. Officials indicated that this initiative is designed to deter recurrent violations and promote sustainable fishing practices in the state.
Additionally, the state government is anticipated to pass the Rajasthan Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Jaipur Bill in the Assembly on Monday. This initiative aims to establish RIMS on the lines of AIIMS and will grant it autonomous status. The Rajasthan University of Health Sciences (RUHS) and Cancer Institute will merge with RIMS.
The Bill outlines the provisions for its formation, governing council, and financial structure, with the Chief Secretary leading the governing council and the government providing RIMS with a separate fund and annual grant.