Kathmandu— Congress MP KC Venugopal on Tuesday rejected Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s offer for a parliamentary discussion regarding recent student protests as an attempt to deflect attention from what he described as “atrocities” committed against students in Delhi. The opposition has consistently demanded accountability for the treatment of protesters, and Venugopal asserted that citing protests elsewhere does not address concerns about alleged police actions within the capital. The exchange occurs amidst ongoing disruptions in Parliament, with both sides seeking to address issues including student demonstrations and allegations of financial impropriety.

Opposition Rejects Diversion Tactics

Venugopal stated that the government’s attempt to link protests in Jharkhand to those in Delhi was a “face-saving exercise.” He emphasized that the opposition's primary demand remains accountability for alleged police brutality and the use of pellet guns against student protesters. "You can't hide atrocities against students in Delhi by mentioning students' protests in Jharkhand," Venugopal told reporters.

Debate Timing Questioned

RJD MP Sanjay Yadav questioned the timing of the government’s offer for a discussion, noting it came on the penultimate day of the Monsoon Session. He pointed out that the opposition had been consistently raising concerns about both alleged theft of donations and police action against students throughout the session, expecting answers from the government. Yadav stressed that members of Parliament, regardless of party affiliation, are there to voice public issues.

Clarification on Gandhi’s Participation

Responding to questions regarding whether Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi was hesitant to debate Home Minister Amit Shah, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor clarified the party's position. “We are always ready,” he stated.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament is nearing its conclusion with both the government and opposition remaining firm on their positions regarding student protests and demands for accountability.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.