Rajya Sabha proceedings were washed out Wednesday as treasury and opposition members sparred on the notice to remove chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and the George Soros issue. Before proceedings were adjourned, both Dhankhar and deputy chairman Harivansh allowed Union ministers Kiren Rijiju and J P Nadda to speak.
Both ministers slammed INDIA bloc for submitting the notice against Dhankhar and Congress for its alleged links with Soros-backed outfits. Soon after proceedings began, Rijiju accused Congress of aligning with “anti-India forces” and undermining dignity of the Chair. “If you cannot respect the Chair, you have no right to be members of this House,” he said. Nadda accused Congress of acting as a “tool of external forces”. Demanding a discussion on the alleged link, he said, “For last two days people have been raising the matter of what relationship does Congress’ leadership have with Soros?” Opposition’s notice against Dhankhar is an attempt to divert attention, he said. As members of both benches didn’t relent, proceedings had to be adjourned for the day.
Lok Sabha passes Railways (Amendment) Bill:
Lok Sabha Wednesday passed the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which seeks to enhance the functioning and independence of the Railway Board, with the govt insisting that it will not lead to the privatisation of the Indian Railways. The bill was passed by a voice vote.
