Kathmandu— Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju reported on Thursday that he had a productive conversation with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The discussion took place in New Delhi and covered various issues including requests for coordinated action between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Indian National Congress (INC). Rijiju emphasized that while they are political opponents, they should not be considered enemies but rather partners working towards national interests.

Dialogue on Parliamentary Functioning

Rijiju highlighted the importance of continuous communication and coordinated action with opposition parties to ensure smooth functioning of Parliament. He noted that despite being political opponents, both sides should work together in the interest of the nation. "We may be political opponents, but we are not enemies; therefore, we should work together in the national interest," he said.

Home Minister's Presence

In response to a query about the opposition's demand for a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police action against protesters, Rijiju pointed out that Shah is present in Parliament throughout the day. "The Home Minister has introduced bills here and is present in Parliament, working from morning till evening; naturally, the minister whose bill is under consideration is the one who remains present in the House," he said.

Opposition's Demands

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge renewed demands for a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on police action against student protesters at the July 20 Jantar Mantar protest. "We only raise genuine questions concerning the country and its 140 crore people. We are asking the Home Minister and the Prime Minister to come to the House," he said in Rajya Sabha.

Rijiju's Response

Kiren Rijiju criticized Kharge for his remarks, stating that the Leader of the Opposition cannot give directions to the Chair but can only make requests. "New Congress members are not learning anything because their leadership is not giving them a chance," he said.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.