New Delhi, August 3: During the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament, Congress raised several issues against the central government on Tuesday, demanding meaningful discussions. Congress leaders strongly condemned the alleged attack on Pappu Yadav, a Member of Parliament from Purnia, during a press conference. They called for a detailed debate on proposed bills and reiterated their demand for the Home Minister to address the House regarding the alleged use of force against students.
Congress MP Sukdev Bhagat described the attack on Pappu Yadav as an assault on democracy and freedom of expression. He stated that disagreeing with someone’s views does not justify violent or inappropriate behavior. In a democracy, everyone has the right to express their opinions, and disagreements should be addressed through dialogue and democratic means. He urged the government to take this matter seriously and take strict action against the perpetrators.
Responding to key bills presented in Parliament, Sukdev Bhagat emphasized the need for comprehensive discussions on significant legislation, such as increasing the number of Supreme Court judges and amending the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act. He accused the government of frequently passing bills via voice vote, limiting the opposition’s opportunity to express their views.
He noted that during previous bills, opposition leaders were not given adequate time, and debates often devolved into accusations. He asserted that the purpose of Parliament is not just to pass bills but also to listen to all viewpoints and strengthen democratic discourse. Limiting discussions based on majority power is not in line with democratic traditions.
Congress MP Pramod Tiwari also condemned the alleged attack on Pappu Yadav, stating that freedom of expression is the greatest strength of democracy. He acknowledged that it is natural to disagree with someone’s views, but responses should not involve violence, insults, or any form of aggressive reaction. He stressed that if Pappu Yadav expressed his views on a platform, the response should be logical and verbal.
Pramod Tiwari asserted that debate and dialogue are the solutions to differences in a democracy. He highlighted that Pappu Yadav has served as an MP six times, and listening to his opinions is part of the democratic process. He clarified that any form of violence contradicts democratic values.
In response to questions about the legislative agenda, Pramod Tiwari noted that it is still unclear how many bills will be presented in the House. He mentioned that a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee is scheduled for 1:05 PM, where it will be decided how many bills will be discussed. Detailed information will be provided after the meeting.
Regarding the alleged attack on Pappu Yadav, JB Mathar also deemed it completely unacceptable. He stated that there are numerous constitutional and peaceful ways to register dissent in a democracy. He emphasized that protests can be conducted through letters, published articles, placards, and slogans, but there should be no place for violence or intimidation.
Meanwhile, Sukdev Bhagat commented on the counting of votes in the Bankipur Assembly by-election and the political prospects of Prashant Kishor, founder of Jan Suraj. He affirmed that every individual has the right to contest elections and express their views to the public. He wished Prashant Kishor well, stating that it is now up to the public to decide how much they trust his promises and strategies. He noted that this will be a significant political test for Jan Suraj as a new party.
On the issue of the alleged use of AK-47s and pellet guns against students, Congress MP JB Mathar described it as serious. He stated that Congress and the INDIA alliance remain firm in their stance on this matter. He demanded that the central Home Minister come to both Houses of Parliament to provide a detailed statement. According to him, this is a very serious issue, and there has been no clear response from the government so far.
JB Mathar asserted that the opposition will continue to raise this issue, as the government must be held accountable for matters concerning students. He alleged that despite such serious accusations, the government’s silence raises many questions.
–
Leave a Comment