Opposition objects to the deployment of CISF in Rajya Sabha. Kharge calls it an attack on democracy, while the government terms it a security measure.
Rajyasbha Security: Political tension escalated in the Rajya Sabha on Friday when Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge bly objected to the deployment of CISF personnel in the well of the House. Describing it as against democratic processes and the rights of parliamentarians, he wrote to the Deputy Chairman seeking a clear explanation on this ‘shocking’ situation.
Kharge's Sharp Letter
In his letter, Mallikarjun Kharge wrote that CISF personnel were seen when opposition MPs reached the well to raise issues of public interest. Expressing deep surprise at this, Kharge said that such a scene was witnessed yesterday as well and repeated today. He questioned whether the level of our Parliament has fallen so low that uniformed personnel are needed to prevent MPs from raising issues?
Kharge urged the Deputy Chairman to ensure that in the future, when a member raises issues of public interest in a democratic manner, CISF personnel should not enter the well of the House. He termed it highly objectionable, stating that it is against the dignity of Parliament.
Opposition's Allegation
The opposition also alleges that the ruling party is repeatedly trying to suppress their voice. Reacting to this, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that after the sudden and unprecedented resignation of the Chairman, the House is now witnessing the "occupation" of the CISF. He described it as against parliamentary traditions and supported Kharge's letter.
Government's Clarification
On the other hand, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju completely rejected the opposition's allegations, saying that this step has been taken due to security reasons. He said that many MPs have been demanding that security be increased in the Parliament premises and especially in the well.
Rijiju also said that many times some MPs climb on the tables of the ruling party and protest or create chaos by coming into the well. The deployment of security personnel has been done only to prevent such situations. He clarified that no security personnel interferes unless MPs engage in any malicious act.
