AAP MP Sanjay Singh on Friday sharply criticized the BJP for its alleged mistreatment of Dalits and farmers, accusing the ruling party of disrespecting both the opposition and marginalized communities. Singh’s remarks came as Parliament was embroiled in controversy over the ongoing disruptions in the Rajya Sabha.
Accusations of Disrespect Towards Dalits
Sanjay Singh condemned the BJP for what he described as a long-standing disregard for Dalits, specifically pointing to the party’s treatment of Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, a prominent Dalit leader. Sanjay Singh claimed that the BJP had “disrespected” Kharge, a seasoned politician with over five decades of experience, by not allowing him to speak during parliamentary proceedings. “BJP has always disrespected the Dalits. They did not allow Mallikarjun Kharge to speak in the Parliament, disrespecting him and the opposition,” Singh said.
Treatment of Farmers in Focus
The AAP leader also highlighted the BJP’s treatment of farmers, referencing the violent clashes between farmers and the government during the 2021 protests. He accused the BJP of using force against peaceful farmers, including firing tear gas and physically attacking them with sticks. Singh warned that the party’s attempts to shift focus from these pressing issues would not be tolerated. “We will not allow BJP to divert attention from real issues,” Singh added, emphasizing that the nation would not tolerate disrespect toward Dalits.
Parliament Disruption Escalates Tensions
The remarks by Singh come amid a heated confrontation in the Rajya Sabha on Friday between Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Mallikarjun Kharge, further escalating the ongoing tension in the Upper House. The chaos was sparked by a no-confidence motion against Dhankhar, filed by the INDIA alliance. The motion, which was submitted to the Rajya Sabha Secretary-General on December 10, accuses the Chairman of bias and undermining democratic processes.
Dhankhar Defends Himself Amid Allegations
In a dramatic exchange, Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar, a former BJP leader, lashed out at the opposition, defending his role and accusing them of insulting the Constitution. He also highlighted his background, stating, “I am a farmer’s son; I will not show weakness. I will sacrifice my life for my country.” Dhankhar further criticized the opposition for focusing on personal attacks instead of engaging in meaningful discussion.
Kharge Responds to Dhankhar’s Remarks
In response, Kharge rejected Dhankhar’s remarks, asserting that the opposition had not come to hear the Chairman’s self-praise. “I am also the son of a farmer, and I have faced more challenges than you,” Kharge fired back, accusing the Chairman of encouraging BJP members to target opposition leaders. The tension between the two leaders led to the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha proceedings, further complicating the already volatile situation.
Ongoing Disruptions in Parliament
The winter session of Parliament, which began on November 25, has been marked by continuous disruptions. Both Houses have faced frequent adjournments due to uproar from both the ruling and opposition benches. The INDIA alliance parties have cited the government’s handling of key issues, such as the treatment of Dalits and farmers, as reasons for their current stance.
The Winter Parliament Session, which is scheduled to run until December 20, remains under strain as tensions continue to rise, with the opposition and ruling parties locked in a battle of words and actions.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
