Kathmandu— Parliamentary proceedings in India were disrupted Monday as opposition lawmakers demanded a response from the government concerning recent police actions during student protests at Jantar Mantar and allegations of misappropriated funds related to the Ram Temple. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated the government is prepared for a detailed discussion on student movements, but urged the opposition to allow the Home Minister to deliver an official statement without interruption. The impasse follows demands led by Lok Sabha member Rahul Gandhi for a court-monitored investigation into the alleged police brutality.

Opposition Demands Accountability

Rahul Gandhi criticized the government’s response to the July 20 protests, alleging excessive force was used against students peacefully seeking answers about their future. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he described the use of “pellet guns, nail-studded batons, and tear gas shells” and reported injuries, including broken bones in minors. Gandhi accused the government of either guilt or incompetence and demanded a Supreme Court-supervised investigation, vowing continued protest until accountability is established.

Government Offers Debate, Seeks Order

Kiren Rijiju reiterated the government’s willingness to engage in a “full and detailed discussion” regarding student movements. However, he cautioned against disruptions during official statements, emphasizing the need for an uninterrupted parliamentary process. “My only point made to the Opposition is that while the discussion and a reply are being made, the Opposition should not create disturbances,” Rijiju stated, adding that lawmakers must listen to the Home Minister’s response before initiating debate.

Multiple Issues Fuel Parliamentary Deadlock

Beyond the student protests, opposition members have also raised concerns about alleged embezzlement of donations intended for Ayodhya's Ram Temple. Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav questioned the government on the implementation of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) Amendment Bill, suggesting it is a means to seize control of institutions and divert attention from financial irregularities. CPI(M) MP John Brittas echoed these concerns, stating that the government is attempting to pass bills “by hook or crook” without addressing opposition grievances.

Bills Introduced Amid Uproar

Despite the ongoing protests, four key Bills – including those related to Tribunals Reforms, Mines and Minerals Development, Kerala’s name alteration, and National Co-operative Development – were introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday. However, parliamentary proceedings were adjourned until 2 pm as opposition MPs continued their demonstrations, highlighting a pattern of disruption during the current Monsoon Session where six out of eight bills have been passed without full debate.

The Lok Sabha is expected to reconvene with ongoing pressure from the opposition for answers regarding both the student protests and financial allegations. The government maintains its willingness to discuss these issues but insists on maintaining order within parliamentary proceedings.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.