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."