Synopsis
The political crisis in Rajasthan escalates as six Congress MLAs spend the night in the Assembly following their suspension. In response, the Rajasthan Congress plans statewide protests today, triggered by the controversial remarks made about late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.Key Takeaways
- Six Congress MLAs suspended in Rajasthan.
- MLAs protested by spending the night in the Assembly.
- Statewide protests planned by Rajasthan Congress.
- Controversial remarks about Indira Gandhi sparked outrage.
- Political deadlock continues with no resolution in sight.
Jaipur, Feb 21 (NationPress) The political impasse in Rajasthan has escalated following the suspension of six Congress MLAs, who, in a show of defiance, spent the night within the Assembly, persisting with their protest. The Rajasthan Congress has now declared plans for statewide demonstrations on Saturday in response to the MLAs' suspension and a disrespectful comment regarding late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi made in the House.
During the demonstration, they recited Ramdhuni in the assembly.
The suspension occurred on Friday after the MLAs approached the Speaker's dais in protest against Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Avinash Gehlot’s remarks about late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Despite late-night discussions involving government officials and senior Congress leaders, no agreement was reached.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel, Food Minister Sumit Godara, and Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bedham engaged with senior Congress MLAs in the Leader of Opposition’s chamber, but the talks concluded without resolution.
In light of the ongoing deadlock, the Rajasthan Congress has announced statewide protests for Saturday.
As part of the demonstrations, party members will burn effigies of the minister across all districts to voice their opposition to his comments and the suspension of their representatives.
Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully, after the inconclusive discussions, reiterated the Congress’ position, stating, "Our stance is unequivocal. The discussions were held in a positive environment, yet the government remains obstinate. This is akin to a thief admonishing a police officer. We will not budge from our demands."
With no resolution evident, Congress MLAs have arranged to sleep inside the Assembly. Given that the House is in recess over the weekend, the protest is anticipated to persist until Monday when proceedings resume.
The controversy ignited on Friday during the Question Hour when Minister Avinash Gehlot referred to Indira Gandhi as "your grandmother" while discussing a government initiative.
Congress MLAs surged into the Well of the House in protest, resulting in a heated exchange. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel defended the term, asserting that "grandmother is a term of respect." However, tensions heightened, leading the Speaker to adjourn the session several times.
Addressing reporters outside the Assembly, Minister Patel commented, "Our ministers were providing effective responses based on facts. However, MLA Rafiq Khan dismissed them as unfounded, prompting our objections."
With no compromise apparent, the political standoff is expected to persist, leaving the Assembly in turmoil in the coming days.
