New Delhi: Parliament witnessed heated exchanges in the Lok Sabha on Monday after Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on the border issue triggered strong reactions from the Treasury benches. Citing reports based on claims attributed to former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane regarding alleged Chinese incursions into Indian territory, Rahul Gandhi raised the matter during the ongoing session, leading to disruptions in the House.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh objected, stating that the book referenced by Rahul Gandhi has not yet been published and questioned how details from an unpublished work could be discussed in Parliament. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condemned the remarks, accusing Rahul Gandhi of making statements that undermined the dignity of the House.
As tensions escalated between ruling and opposition members, Speaker Om Birla intervened, clarifying that references to newspaper clippings or unpublished books are not permitted during parliamentary proceedings. He advised Rahul Gandhi to restrict his comments to the motion of thanks on the President’s address. Congress leaders later alleged that Rahul Gandhi’s microphone was switched off while he was speaking.
With repeated interruptions stalling proceedings, Speaker Om Birla announced the adjournment of the Lok Sabha till 4 pm, as chaos continued on the floor of the House.