Kathmandu— Lawmakers from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) staged a protest march toward Parliament on Tuesday, escalating tensions with the Opposition amid ongoing disruptions in both Houses. The demonstration centered around accusations that Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, is avoiding debate on recent student protests and police actions against demonstrators in Jharkhand. The government has offered to hold a debate on the issue, with the Home Minister prepared to respond, but the opposition continues to demand answers regarding the events in Jharkhand.

Parliamentary Logjam Continues

The protest march comes after days of repeated disruptions in Parliament stemming from disagreements between the government and Opposition parties. The core of the dispute revolves around recent student protests and the subsequent police response, specifically a lathi charge and use of water cannons against protesting JPSC and JSSC aspirants in Jharkhand on Monday. While the government has expressed willingness to discuss the matter, opposition members have been demanding specific answers and accountability.

NDA Accusations Against Gandhi

NDA MPs carried placards directly targeting Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of evading a debate on the student protests. Tarun Chugh, a BJP spokesperson, criticized what he described as Gandhi’s “double standards,” stating that the Congress leader is “fleeing the House and remaining silent on the lathi-charge against students in Jharkhand.” Other BJP MPs echoed these sentiments, with Sakshi Maharaj noting a perceived inconsistency in the opposition's approach to protests at Jantar Mantar versus those in Jharkhand. Sanjay Jaiswal added that Gandhi was stalling proceedings despite the Home Minister’s readiness to address concerns.

Opposition Demands Accountability

Rahul Gandhi, however, has countered these claims, asserting that the Opposition is not seeking the Home Minister's opinion but rather a direct answer regarding who authorized the police crackdown. “Amit Shah does not have the courage to come to the Parliament and stand before us,” Gandhi stated on Monday, questioning whether the order for the crackdown originated from Shah himself or another official within the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). He further questioned if the incident stemmed from culpability or incompetence. NCPI MP Rachna Banerjee emphasized that the opposition is seeking answers and expects them to be provided.

Government Offers Debate

Despite the ongoing standoff, the government maintains its willingness to engage in a parliamentary debate on the issue. Kangana Ranaut, a BJP MP, noted that while the Opposition initially welcomed the prospect of discussion, they later “backed out,” accusing them of deceiving the country and obstructing Parliament’s functioning. Manoj Tiwari also urged Gandhi to participate, stating that Amit Shah is prepared to answer questions.

The government's offer for debate remains on the table as both sides continue to hold firm on their demands, with no immediate resolution in sight.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.