INDIA Bloc Criticizes Rajya Sabha Chairman for Partisan Approach, Files No-Confidence Motion

New Delhi, 11th December 2024: On Wednesday, leaders from the INDIA bloc criticized Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, accusing him of displaying a “partisan” approach. This came a day after the bloc filed a no-confidence motion against him.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut launched a sharp critique in a press briefing, describing the proceedings in Parliament as a “circus” under Dhankhar’s leadership. “I have never witnessed such a dire situation before. The Chairman seems to be enjoying this. He is not leading Parliament, he is leading a circus,” Raut remarked.

Raut, who has been in the House for over 22 years, drew comparisons with past Rajya Sabha chairpersons, saying, “I’ve seen four chairmen during my time here, including Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Hamid Ansari, but I have never seen such chaos as I see today.”

Raut accused Dhankhar of prioritizing his speeches over parliamentary business and contributing to disruptions. “After the session starts, he takes 40 minutes giving a lecture and then encourages disturbances from others. We have a great history, but this Chairman is ruining it,” he added.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge joined the criticism, accusing Dhankhar of acting as a spokesperson for the government. “Since 1952, no resolution has been introduced under Article 67 as vice presidents have refrained from political interference. Now, the House is being run by politics, not rules, and the chairman is displaying partisan behaviour,” Kharge said.

Kharge further accused Dhankhar of silencing opposition voices, calling his actions reminiscent of a “school headmaster” giving lectures to experienced opposition members. “The Chairman himself is the main cause of disruptions in the Rajya Sabha. He’s acting as a government spokesperson to secure his next promotion,” Kharge added.

Defending the no-confidence motion, Kharge stated, “We are fed up with the Chairman’s behaviour and bias, which is why we have filed for his removal.” However, the motion is unlikely to succeed, as the INDIA bloc lacks a majority in either House of Parliament.

In response, the NDA dismissed the motion as politically motivated. Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju criticized the opposition’s move, stating, “The opposition disrespects the dignity of the Chair in both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. Vice President Dhankhar comes from a humble background and always speaks about people’s welfare. We respect him, and I condemn the actions of the 60 MPs who signed the notice.” Rijiju reaffirmed the NDA’s confidence in Dhankhar’s leadership, highlighting the coalition’s majority.