Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on Thursday launched a scathing attack on Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien, urging him to maintain decorum. A visibly upset and furious Dhankhar raised his voice, expressing, “I am being insulted every day in the House.”
The events unfolded during a discussion on Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Olympics. Health Minister JP Nadda was addressing the House, emphasizing, “The entire nation stands with Vinesh Phogat. The Prime Minister lauded her as the ‘Champion of champions,’ reflecting the sentiment of 1.4 billion people. Regrettably, this issue is being polarized between the ruling and opposition sides. The opposition lacks substantial concerns for discussion, unlike the preparedness of the ruling party… I want to assure you that the Government of India, Sports Ministry, and IOC have diligently pursued recourse on all platforms,” stated Nadda.
In response to Nadda’s remarks, the Opposition initiated a disturbance. Interjecting them, Dhankhar stated, “…They (Opposition) believe they are the sole bearers of empathy…The entire nation is in anguish for the girl. Everyone shares the sentiment, but to commercialize and politicize it is the ultimate disrespect to the girl. She has a long journey ahead…”
Amidst this, reports indicated that TMC MP Derek O’Brien persistently persisted with his comments. Dhankhar censured his behavior, denouncing, “You are shouting at the Chair. I condemn this behavior. Can anyone condone such conduct?”
The aforementioned events undeniably led to a pronounced disruption in the Rajya Sabha, with dynamics reaching a boiling point. The discourse, which began with the concerning disqualification of Vinesh Phogat, ultimately spiraled into a clash of opinions and behavior, resulting in a contentious disruption of the House’s proceedings.
The intensifying disruptions in the Rajya Sabha and the verbal altercations between the Chairman and members, particularly the exchange involving Derek O’Brien, highlight a growing divergence of perspectives within the House, contributing to a pervasive sense of unrest and discord amidst important deliberations.
As the atmosphere in the Rajya Sabha has become increasingly charged, it is imperative for all stakeholders to revisit the principles of decorum, respect, and constructive dialogue that form the cornerstone of parliamentary proceedings. The interruptions and confrontations witnessed during this session underscore the necessity for a more harmonious and collaborative approach to address and deliberate upon crucial matters of public interest and national significance within the hallowed halls of the Rajya Sabha.
The events within the Rajya Sabha during this session unmistakably underscore the need for leaders and parliamentarians to uphold the highest standards of conduct and engagement, ensuring that discussions, debates, and deliberations serve the paramount objective of furthering the welfare and interests of the people and the nation as a whole.
