Opposition Stages Walkout in Rajya Sabha Over Maha Kumbh Stampede; Rule 267 Notices Dismissed
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Synopsis
The Rajya Sabha had a tumultuous session on February 3, as Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar rejected nine notices regarding the Maha Kumbh stampede. The Opposition protested vigorously, demanding accountability from the Uttar Pradesh government, leading to a walkout.
Key Takeaways
- Rajya Sabha faced significant protests over the Maha Kumbh stampede.
- Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar rejected all nine notices under Rule 267.
- Opposition MPs staged a walkout in demand of accountability.
- Concerns raised over the treatment of victims' families.
- The importance of constructive parliamentary conduct was emphasized.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Rajya Sabha experienced significant turmoil on Monday when Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar dismissed all nine notices submitted under Rule 267, amidst fervent protests from the Opposition regarding the Maha Kumbh stampede in Prayagraj.
The Opposition demanded accountability from the Uttar Pradesh government and staged a walkout in protest.
In his speech to the House, Dhankhar remarked, "I have received nine notices under Rule 267. Members may remember my extensive ruling on how such matters should be handled, given on December 8, 2022, and December 19, 2022. These notices do not adhere to the guidelines provided."
He then moved on to discussions during Zero Hour.
The notices that were rejected were related to the alleged mismanagement of the Maha Kumbh and the increasing instances of disrespect towards the Constitution and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Following Dhankhar's ruling, Opposition MPs engaged in loud protests, insisting on a dedicated discussion about the stampede tragedy.
During his remarks, Dhankhar emphasized the necessity of constructive parliamentary behavior, stating, "Our conduct must be exemplary, our deliberations wise and constructive, and our actions are driven by the welfare of the 1.4 billion citizens who place their faith in us. A vibrant and functional Parliament is the lifeblood of democracy."
Highlighting the importance of the Maha Kumbh, he stated, "The great Maha Kumbh, a magnificent celebration of India's spiritual and cultural essence, provides deep lessons for our journey -- unity in diversity, collective well-being, and a steadfast commitment to truth, tolerance, and harmony. As we interact with the global community, let these principles be the cornerstones of our nation, ensuring that the well-being of every citizen remains a priority in our pursuits."
After the walkout, Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav blamed the Uttar Pradesh administration for significant mismanagement.
Speaking to reporters, he asserted, "The stampede occurred due to administrative negligence. Eyewitnesses report that thousands were killed in the chaos."
He further claimed that the victims' families were being denied access to the bodies, no post-mortems were being conducted, and no action had been taken against those responsible.
"We submitted notices, but they were all rejected," he added.
Congress MP Pramod Tiwari voiced similar concerns, stating, "We walked out for an hour, but we will return and raise this issue again. We are receiving distress calls from individuals who are crying because they cannot locate their family members."
He questioned why the official list of the 30 deceased had not been made public and why their photographs were not being released. "Can't we at least honor the departed souls?" he asked.
RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha also criticized the Uttar Pradesh government, stating, "The entire country is concerned about those who have lost their lives. Kumbh has been held for centuries -- it was held before this government, and it will be held after them. Kumbh is a continuous tradition, but governments are temporary. The country demands accountability, and this issue must be discussed in Parliament."
