Breaking news:
BJP Expected to Appoint New Party President by End of April as State Polls Wrap Up: Sources | Pakistan Army Chief Issues Stern Warning to Baloch Militants: “We Will Crush You” | Ranveer Allahbadia Announces 'Brother' Samay Raina's Return: "Picture Abhi Baki Hai"
Logo

Jagdeep Dhankhar Walks Out Amid Opposition Protests Over Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification

Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar temporarily exited the Rajya Sabha on Thursday after opposition protests over the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics 

08-08-2024
image
   

Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar temporarily exited the Rajya Sabha on Thursday following a commotion by the opposition, who were protesting against the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. Dhankhar later chaired the Question Hour, describing the conduct of opposition members as "unprecedented" and "indigestible."

Before leaving, Dhankhar expressed his distress over what he perceived as an attack on the dignity of the Speaker's position. "Turning this sacred House into a center of anarchy, attacking Indian democracy, and tarnishing the dignity of the Speaker's post is not just indecent conduct; it crosses all limits," he stated.

Dhankhar emphasized that the challenge was not against him personally but against the institution of the chairperson. "The way the challenge is being given through words, letters, and newspapers, and how many wrong comments have been made, is not a challenge to me but to the post of chairperson," he said.

He also convened a meeting of Rajya Sabha floor leaders to discuss the matter.

What Led to the Uproar?

The commotion began after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the circumstances behind Phogat's disqualification, noting she was found to be 100 grams overweight just hours before her 50 kg freestyle gold medal match. Phogat announced her retirement on the same day.

"The issue of Vinesh Phogat is very important... We need to know who was behind it," Kharge stated.

In response, Dhankhar urged that the matter should not be politicized, saying, "The entire nation is feeling the pain, from the President, the Prime Minister, to myself. To politicize the issue is the greatest disrespect to the girl (Phogat). She has a long way to go."

Despite Dhankhar's remarks and his acknowledgment of Haryana's prompt financial support and recognition of Phogat as a medal winner, opposition MPs continued to demand a discussion. Dhankhar reprimanded TMC MP Derek O'Brien for shouting at the chair, condemning his actions and warning him against lowering the dignity of the House.

"Your conduct is the ugliest in the House. I condemn your action. Next time I will show you the door. You cannot shout at the desk," Dhankhar said. He also cautioned Congress MP Jairam Ramesh against inappropriate behavior.

As the uproar persisted, opposition INDIA bloc parties staged a walkout. Speaking to reporters afterward, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari stated, "The INDIA bloc members have staged a walkout from Rajya Sabha over the Vinesh Phogat issue. We wanted to discuss the issues surrounding her Olympics disqualification, but the government is not ready."

Image

JD Vance Shares Candid Taj Mahal Family Photo, Reflects on Warm Welcome in In

US Vice President JD Vance wrapped up his India trip with a heartfelt post from Agra, sharing family

Read More
Image

Nation Mourns as Bodies of Pahalgam Attack Victims Reach Home, Families Griev

Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded across India as the remains of tourists killed in the Pahalgam terro

Read More
Image

PM Modi Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Vows Swift Action Against Perpetrato

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the deadly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam

Read More