Verbal Clash in Rajya Sabha: Kharge and Dhankhar Spar Over No-Confidence Motion

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Verbal Clash in Rajya Sabha: Kharge and Dhankhar Spar Over No-Confidence Motion

New Delhi, Dec 13 (NationPress) A heated verbal exchange unfolded in the Rajya Sabha on Friday between Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge concerning the no-confidence motion presented by the opposition parties. This verbal confrontation exemplified the escalating friction between the ruling and opposition factions in the Upper House, with accusations of partiality and disrespect taking the spotlight.

Chairman Dhankhar voiced his profound disappointment over the confidence motion filed against him, stating, “I am saddened that the main opposition party is questioning my role publicly instead of following constitutional procedures. While the opposition has the right to bring a no-confidence motion, undermining the process through press conferences is inappropriate.”

In response, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Chairman of showing disrespect. “When the Chairman does not respect me, how can I respect him?” Kharge asserted, further alleging that the Chairman had instigated ruling party MPs to target him and his party.

Chairman Dhankhar then referenced his humble origins, asserting, “I am a farmer’s son; I will not be weak. Bring your motion -- it's your constitutional right -- but do not derail the process.”

Kharge countered, “If you are a farmer’s son, I am a farmer-labourer’s son. You are insulting us and our party members.”

This confrontation arises amidst the no-confidence motion lodged by opposition MPs, including Congress, who accused the Chairman of bias. They argued that he suppressed their voices while favoring the ruling party.

Meanwhile, BJP MPs gathered to support the Chairman. MP Radha Mohan Das Agrawal proposed a breach of privilege motion against those who filed the no-confidence notice, claiming that the matter was discussed outside the House, violating parliamentary norms. “A 14-day notice is mandatory before moving such a motion. Congress has a history of disrespecting the President and Vice President,” he stated.

MP Surendra Singh Nagar framed the opposition’s no-confidence motion as “anti-farmer,” while MP Neeraj Shekhar questioned, “If a farmer’s son holds such a high post, why does the opposition have a problem?”

Congress MP Pramod Tiwari defended Kharge, highlighting his identity as a Dalit and a farmer, prompting the Chairman to interject, reiterating his own identity as a farmer’s son.

The intense discussions led to disorder in the House, compelling the Chairman to adjourn the proceedings until Monday.

“Running the House is essential for the nation and society,” Dhankhar remarked before the adjournment.

This incident underscores the widening divide between the ruling and opposition benches, as both sides strive to assert their respective positions in the face of growing tensions.