On December 19, a chaotic scene unfolded at the Makar Dwar entrance of Parliament as MPs from the ruling BJP and the opposition I.N.D.I.A. The bloc clashed during a protest. This incident erupted over controversial remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah about B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution.
What Happened?
The trouble began when opposition MPs, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, attempted to enter Parliament through an area occupied by BJP members who were protesting. Instead of using an empty staircase nearby, they insisted on passing through the protesting BJP MPs. This led to pushing and shoving between the two groups.
BJP MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi was injured during the scuffle, suffering a wound on his head. He was taken to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital for treatment. Another BJP MP, Mukesh Rajput, also reported injuries from the clash.
Allegations Fly
After the incident, Sarangi accused Rahul Gandhi of pushing another MP into him, which caused his injury. However, Gandhi denied these claims and stated that it was BJP MPs who were aggressive and tried to block him from entering Parliament.
Both parties have lodged complaints against each other regarding the incident. The BJP has filed a police complaint against Gandhi for alleged assault and incitement, while Congress has accused BJP MPs of misbehavior towards their leaders.
Protests Intensify
The protests were sparked by Amit Shah’s remarks that many in the opposition viewed as disrespectful to Ambedkar. In response, opposition MPs wore blue clothing—a color symbolizing Dalit movements—and carried placards demanding Shah’s resignation and an apology for his comments.
Meanwhile, BJP MPs protested against Congress, accusing them of disrespecting Ambedkar’s legacy. The situation escalated as both sides shouted slogans at each other, resulting in a tense atmosphere within Parliament.
Parliament Adjourned
Due to the uproar and ongoing protests from both sides, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned multiple times throughout the day. The clash highlights the growing political divide in India as both parties refuse to back down on their demands regarding Ambedkar’s legacy and respect in Parliament.
As investigations continue into this chaotic event, it remains clear that tensions between the ruling party and opposition are at an all-time high, reflecting deeper issues within Indian politics today.
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