On Thursday, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar briefly exited the House while denouncing the behavior of opposition members who staged a walkout. The protest followed Dhankhar’s refusal to permit a discussion on the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics.
Chairman Dhankhar’s Exit
As Rajya Sabha proceedings began, chaos erupted in the House, prompting Dhankhar to leave his seat emotionally. “I have only one option, with a sad heart… I am not going away from my oath, but what I have seen today, is the way I have been treated. Physically, I am not able to sit here,” he stated before departing.
Opposition’s Reaction
Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge raised concerns about Phogat’s disqualification, questioning, “Who is behind this and how only 100 grams led to her disqualification?” The Chairman denied permission to discuss the issue, leading to opposition MPs, including Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien, creating a commotion with slogans against the Centre.
Chairman’s Condemnation
Dhankhar condemned the conduct of Trinamool Congress members, particularly targeting O’Brien. “Mr Derek O’Brien, you are shouting at the Chair. Your conduct is the ugliest in the House. I condemn your action. Next time, I will show you the door. How dare you shout at the Chair?” Dhankhar declared.
He criticized the broader implications of the opposition’s actions, reflecting, “We have seen the ugliest of scenes. We saw a dark phase of our democracy during the Emergency. It starts with challenging the Parliamentary institutions, and there is a challenge here.”
Support for Phogat
Dhankhar expressed national sympathy for Phogat, saying, “The entire nation is in pain because of our girl. From the President to the Prime Minister to myself, everyone is hurt by the situation. But to monetise and politicise it is the greatest disrespect to the girl. That girl has a long way to go.” He commended the Haryana government’s prompt support, which included financial relief and commendations for Phogat.
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Leader of the House J.P. Nadda condemned the Opposition’s behavior, emphasizing national unity. “The people who are working in the Parliamentary system for a long time, this behavior is questionable and a matter of concern,” he said.
Nadda reiterated the nation’s support for Phogat, quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who labeled her a “champion of champions.” He criticized the politicization of the issue, stating, “The entire nation is standing with Vinesh. It is disheartening that this issue is being politicised.”
He concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to resolving the issue, asserting, “When the entire nation is standing with Vinesh, and all efforts are being made by the government, Sports Ministry, and the Olympic Association to seek redressal on this issue, it is clear that the opposition lacks any solid issue to raise.”
