ANI photo

NEW DELHI: The Rajya Sabha was adjourned thrice on Tuesday and could not transact any business as the opposition parties continued to insist on a discussion in the House on Delhi violence .

Soon after the House met at 3 pm following two adjournments, first one in the morning and second post-lunch, leader of the opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad wondered aloud as to why the government was adopting double standards by claiming on one hand that the situation in Delhi was normal but on the other hand insisting that a discussion could not be allowed until the situation had normalised.

“All of us, whether in the Opposition or government, condemn the incidents. That Delhi violence is talked about in foreign countries but not discussed even though Parliament is in session, is a little odd. We are not looking to confront the government. We are all saddened; the victims, be it from any community or religion, were fellow humans. 90% of those dead were in the 24-35 age group. Property and shops were also destroyed,” he noted.

“We should not be fighting, but discussing how such incidents can be averted in the future. If the government says discussion will worsen the situation, I wish to state that none in the Opposition will add due to the fire. The Opposition MPs are responsible. We will appeal for peace and ask people not to believe in rumours. The issue is a current. Just like a painkiller is taken when one is having a headache, we should have discussed Delhi violence yesterday itself. The issue will no longer be relevant if debated after 10-12 days. Parliamentarians should not run away from their responsibility,” added Azad.

At this point Leader of the House Thaawar Chand Gehlot got up to assure that the government was ready for a discussion as per the schedule to be decided by Rajya Sabha Chairman. Deputy Chairman then said the date and time for the discussion would be indicated by the Chairman.

Senior Congress MP Anand Sharma meanwhile pressed that the discussion starts at 11 am tomorrow and that no other business be taken up before that. This sentiment was echoed by TRS MP K Keshava Rao, who said a debate on Delhi violence must precede any other business, to convey that it is the “top priority” of the House.

The deputy chairman at this point adjourned the House for the day.

