New Delhi [India]: Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday submitted a privilege notice against Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of making defamatory remarks against former Congress President Sonia Gandhi during a debate on the Disaster Management Bill, 2024 in the Rajya Sabha.
Allegations Against Amit Shah
Ramesh, the Congress chief whip in the Rajya Sabha, alleged that the Home Minister falsely accused Sonia Gandhi of having undue control over the National Prime Minister’s Relief Fund (NPMRF) during the Congress regime.
In his notice to Rajya Sabha Chairman, Ramesh stated:
“The Home Minister’s statement is blatantly false and defamatory. It constitutes a breach of privilege of Smt. Sonia Gandhi and contempt of the House.”
Amit Shah’s Alleged Remarks
During his March 25 speech in the Rajya Sabha, Shah reportedly said:
“The PM relief fund was made during the Congress regime, and during this government’s tenure, the PM CARES fund was started. During the Congress regime, only one family had control, and the Congress president was a member of this. The Congress President was part of a government fund—what reply will they give to the people of this country? Does no one read or see this?”
Congress’ Objection
Violation of House Rules: Citing Rule 188 of the Rajya Sabha’s Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business, Ramesh claimed the statement maligned her reputation and breached parliamentary privilege.
Indirect Reference to Sonia Gandhi: Ramesh argued that while Shah did not name Sonia Gandhi, his remarks implied her involvement in the NPMRF’s functioning.