Opposition Leader Raises Concerns Over CISF Presence in Rajya Sabha
In a recent session of the Rajya Sabha, opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge expressed serious concerns regarding the presence of CISF personnel in the chamber. He accused the government of hindering the opposition's ability to raise critical issues and condemned the situation as highly objectionable. Kharge's letter to the Deputy Chairman highlights the alarming trend of security forces being deployed during protests, raising questions about the state of democracy in Parliament. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the security measures, stating they were necessary due to previous aggressive protests by some members. This ongoing situation has sparked significant debate about the balance between security and democratic rights in the legislative process.
Aug 1, 2025, 16:29 IST
Opposition Voices Concerns in Rajya Sabha
On Friday, Mallikarjun Kharge, the leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha, expressed strong objections regarding the presence of security personnel in the well of the house. He accused the government of obstructing opposition members from raising important issues. In a letter addressed to the Deputy Chairman, Kharge highlighted his concerns about the deployment of CISF personnel during the opposition's protests within the chamber. He stated, "We are shocked and appalled by the manner in which CISF personnel are being allowed in the well of the house while members exercise their democratic right to protest."
Kharge further remarked that this situation was witnessed both yesterday and today. He questioned, "Has our Parliament sunk to this level? This is highly objectionable, and we unequivocally condemn it." He urged the Deputy Chairman to ensure that CISF personnel do not enter the well whenever members raise issues of public interest. Additionally, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh noted that following the unexpected resignation of the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the chamber is now witnessing a takeover by CISF personnel. Kharge has formally communicated this alarming development to the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the deployment of CISF was in response to demands for increased security from parliament members. He explained that members have occasionally protested physically by standing on the government benches and near the well, necessitating security measures to prevent such actions. Rijiju assured that no member would be prevented from speaking, and that marshals and security personnel would only intervene if any member engaged in malicious behavior. He added that some members had become aggressive, prompting the need for security arrangements.