In a dramatic turn of events in the Rajya Sabha, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi led a walkout of opposition members following a heated exchange between Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. The incident, which took place on August 9, 2024, has sparked significant political debate and media attention.
The Incident
The confrontation began when Jaya Bachchan, a veteran actress-turned-politician, accused Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar of speaking to her in an “unacceptable” tone. The issue escalated when Dhankhar referred to her as “Jaya Amitabh Bachchan,” a recurrence of a previous controversy that Bachchan had strongly objected to.
Addressing the Upper House, Jaya Bachchan expressed her disapproval of Dhankhar’s manner of speaking, stating, “I am an artist. I understand body language and expressions. But your tone is not right. We are your colleagues, but your tone is unacceptable.” This statement led to a sharp retort from Dhankhar, who emphasized the need for decorum in the House.
The Walkout
The exchange prompted immediate reactions from opposition members, who rallied in support of Jaya Bachchan. Sonia Gandhi, a prominent figure in Indian politics and a senior leader of the Congress party, took the lead in organizing a walkout. The opposition members exited the Rajya Sabha in protest, highlighting their dissatisfaction with the chairman’s conduct.
Speaking to reporters outside the Parliament, Jaya Bachchan elaborated on her grievances, stating, “I objected to the tone used by the Chair. We are not school children. Some of us are senior citizens. I was upset with the tone, and especially when the Leader of Opposition stood up to speak, he switched off the microphone. How can you do this? You have to allow the Leader of Opposition to speak.”.
Political Reactions to walkout led by Sonia Gandhi
The walkout led by Sonia Gandhi has drawn varied reactions from different political quarters. The Congress party and its allies have supported the move, arguing that it was necessary to uphold the dignity and respect of the members of the Rajya Sabha. They have called for an apology from the chairman and a review of the conduct within the House.
On the other hand, members of the ruling party have criticized the walkout, accusing the opposition of disrupting parliamentary proceedings for political gain. They argue that the chairman was merely enforcing the rules and maintaining order in the House.
Media Coverage
The incident has received extensive media coverage, with news channels and social media platforms buzzing with discussions and debates. Political analysts have weighed in on the implications of the walkout, with some viewing it as a strategic move by the opposition to assert their presence and challenge the ruling party’s dominance in Parliament.
Historical Context
This is not the first time that Jaya Bachchan has found herself at the center of a controversy in the Rajya Sabha. Known for her outspoken nature, she has previously clashed with other members and the Chair over various issues. Her strong stance on matters of decorum and respect in the House has earned her both praise and criticism.
The Role of Sonia Gandhi
Sonia Gandhi’s leadership in the walkout underscores her continued influence in Indian politics. Despite stepping back from active leadership roles in recent years, her presence and actions continue to shape the strategies and decisions of the Congress party. Her decision to lead the walkout reflects her commitment to supporting her colleagues and standing up against perceived injustices.
The Broader Implications
The walkout and the events leading up to it have broader implications for the functioning of the Rajya Sabha and the relationship between the ruling party and the opposition. It highlights the ongoing tensions and the challenges of maintaining decorum and mutual respect in parliamentary proceedings. The incident also raises questions about the role of the chair in managing conflicts and ensuring fair treatment of all members.
Conclusion
The walkout led by Sonia Gandhi after Jaya Bachchan’s clash with Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar marks a significant moment in the current session of Parliament. It underscores the importance of decorum, respect, and fair conduct in the legislative process. As the political landscape continues to evolve, such incidents serve as reminders of the need for dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among all members of Parliament.
The coming days will likely see further discussions and debates on the incident, with both sides presenting their perspectives. For now, the walkout stands as a testament to the opposition’s resolve to challenge what they perceive as unfair treatment and to uphold the principles of parliamentary democracy.
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Neeraj Tiwari