Opposition Unites Against BJP’s Alleged Disregard for Dalits, Farmers, and Democratic Norms During Contentious Winter Session
New Delhi, December 13: AAP MP Sanjay Singh launched a scathing attack on the BJP on Friday, accusing the ruling party of consistently disrespecting Dalits, the opposition, and farmers. Singh’s fiery remarks came amidst a chaotic day in the Rajya Sabha, which saw proceedings adjourned until December 16 following heated exchanges between Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.
Sanjay Singh accused the BJP of silencing dissenting voices and diverting attention from critical issues. “BJP has always disrespected Dalits. They disrespected Mallikarjun Kharge, a Dalit leader with over 50 years of political experience, by not allowing him to speak in Parliament. The BJP’s actions against farmers—using tear gas and physical violence—show their blatant disregard for real issues. India will not tolerate the disrespect of Dalits or anyone else,” Singh declared.
Row Over No-Confidence Motion
Earlier in the day, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar clashed with the opposition over a no-confidence motion filed against him by the INDIA bloc. The Chairman defended his position, stating, “I am a farmer’s son and will sacrifice my life for my country. The opposition is insulting the Constitution with these actions.”
Mallikarjun Kharge, responding to Dhankhar, criticized him for encouraging ruling party members to attack the opposition. “I, too, am a farmer’s son and have faced greater challenges. We are here for discussion, not to hear self-praise. You are insulting the Congress and our leaders,” Kharge countered.
The INDIA bloc submitted the no-confidence motion on December 10, citing concerns over democratic and constitutional safeguards. In a joint press conference, the opposition parties stated they were compelled to take this step to protect India’s democratic framework.
Parliamentary Deadlock
The Winter Session, which began on November 25, has been marred by disruptions in both Houses. Friday’s session in the Rajya Sabha was no exception, with uproar from both Treasury and Opposition benches leading to its adjournment.
The session is scheduled to continue until December 20, but with tensions high and the no-confidence motion on the table, further disruptions seem inevitable.
The ongoing clash underscores deepening divisions in India’s parliamentary functioning, with both sides accusing each other of disrespecting democratic norms.