Parliament sessions come to an abrupt halt as opposition uproar intensifies over the security breach, leading to the suspension of 14 MPs and a demand for accountability.
The Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha sessions were adjourned for the day following protests by the opposition, demanding a discussion on the recent security breach in Parliament. The agitation intensified as Opposition leaders of the INDIA alliance staged a protest near the Gandhi statue in the Parliament complex, a day after 14 MPs faced suspension.
Among the suspended MPs, Derek O'Brien of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) expressed his dissent through a 'silent protest,' donning a T-shirt with the message. Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi also joined the demonstration, where placards emphasized their suspension for speaking out, contrasting with a perceived lack of action against the alleged BJP MP involved in the security breach.
The suspended MPs, including nine from the Congress and DMK's Kanimozhi, demanded the revocation of their suspensions. Hibi Eden, one of the suspended Lok Sabha MPs, highlighted the disparity, citing the free movement of the BJP MP accused of facilitating the intrusion, while he and his colleagues were penalized for raising valid concerns.
Notably, the protest echoes recent incidents of suspension and expulsion of MPs, with the Congress specifically calling for accountability from BJP MP Pratap Simha. The suspended MPs from the Lok Sabha include T N Prathapan, Jothimani, Ramya Haridas, Dean Kuriakose, VK Sreekandan, Benny Behanan, Mohammed Jawaid, Manickam Tagore, CPI-M MP PR Natarajan, and S Venkatesan. The DMK's SR Parthiban faced initial suspension, later withdrawn due to his absence in the House.
In Rajya Sabha, Derek O'Brien faced suspension, and subsequently, a breach of privilege motion was initiated against him for staying in the House post-suspension. Both houses witnessed adjournments for the day amidst the ongoing opposition protests.