Kathmandu— Members of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) staged a protest in the Indian Parliament complex on Tuesday, accusing opposition parties of obstructing proceedings and avoiding debate on recent incidents involving protesting students. The demonstration followed continued demands from the opposition for a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding alleged police action against protestors at Jantar Mantar on July 20, while NDA members raised concerns about similar actions taken against students in Jharkhand. Lawmakers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) specifically called upon Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to answer questions regarding the situation in Jharkhand and attend parliamentary sessions.

Parliamentary Logjam Intensifies

The monsoon session of Parliament has been marked by persistent disruptions as opposition parties have demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on the alleged police action at Jantar Mantar. NDA MPs responded by staging their own protest, accusing the opposition of deliberately hindering parliamentary functions and avoiding discussion on key issues. Union Minister Anupriya Patel stated that the government is prepared for debate but alleges the opposition’s sole intention is to create disruption.

Focus on Alleged Jharkhand Police Action

A central point of contention revolves around alleged police actions against protesting students in Jharkhand. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari directly challenged Rahul Gandhi, urging him to address the reported “brutality” and attend Parliament. Jagadambika Pal criticized the opposition’s silence regarding the lathi-charge and water cannons used against students in Jharkhand, while Aparajita Sarangi questioned why Gandhi remained silent on the matter.

Government Offers Shah's Statement

Despite the ongoing protests, the government has offered to allow Home Minister Amit Shah to address Parliament regarding the student protests. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that Shah is prepared to answer questions from the opposition, provided parliamentary proceedings can resume without disruption. Anurag Thakur emphasized a need for justice for the youth of Jharkhand and criticized Gandhi’s demand for answers from the Home Minister while simultaneously avoiding participation in House proceedings.

Opposition Accusations of Evasion

Several BJP MPs accused Rahul Gandhi of evading parliamentary duties and remaining silent on the alleged incidents in Jharkhand. Tarun Chugh stated that Gandhi should come to Parliament and respond to questions regarding the lathi-charge, while Sakshi Maharaj claimed the opposition’s policies differed depending on the location of protests. Arun Govil added that the government is now ready for debate but alleges the Opposition is “running away” from it.

The political standoff between the ruling NDA and opposition parties continues to escalate, with both sides maintaining their positions and demanding accountability. Amit Shah’s potential response remains a key point of contention as the monsoon session progresses.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.