New Delhi (Agency): Congress, claimed on Thursday that the Modi government is avoiding a meaningful debate concerning Manipur in the Rajya Sabha. They believe that the government’s approach is inflexible and likened it to a “my way or the highway” attitude.
Members of the opposition INDIA bloc in the Rajya Sabha put forward a proposal. They wanted to discuss Manipur using a specific parliamentary rule. This rule requires the House to pass a resolution before such a debate. However, members from the ruling party did not agree with this approach, particularly the demand for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence. This disagreement led to a temporary halt in the proceedings.
Jairam Ramesh, a senior member of Congress, provided more insight into the situation. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ramesh explained, “In the Rajya Sabha today three MPs from INDIA parties – Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Elamaram Karim of CPM, and Binoy Viswam of CPI – submitted a motion on Manipur under Rule 167. They wanted to kickstart a proper discussion in the Council of States.”
The issue has been ongoing. Before this, opposition parties were urging a debate under Rule 267. This rule involves a voting process and a statement by the Prime Minister. The government, on the other hand, has been consistent in its stance. Since the beginning of the Monsoon session, they have asked for a shorter discussion, using Rule 176, which excludes voting or any minister’s response.
“The Chairman is trying hard to find a middle ground,” Ramesh stated. “INDIA parties are even willing to discuss with BJP representatives to find a solution. However, the Modi government seems fixed in its ways.”
He continued, emphasizing that the government doesn’t seem to want an open discussion. He added, “Moreover, they’re firm in their belief that the PM shouldn’t address the Manipur topic in the Rajya Sabha.”
This debate took another turn when Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, made a formal request. He asked Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar to allow a discussion under Rule 167 and wished for the prime minister to be present.
The request stirred up strong reactions. As members from the treasury benches voiced their disagreement, Kharge humorously remarked, “What’s the big deal if the prime minister attends the House? He isn’t almighty. He isn’t a god.” This comment resulted in a commotion, leading the chairman to suspend the session until 2 pm.
The debate on Manipur has become a contentious point between the ruling and opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha. With both sides firmly holding to their views, it remains to be seen how this situation will evolve and if a middle ground can be reached.
