Controversy Erupts Over RSS Remarks in Rajya Sabha

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticized Upper House Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar's comment that the RSS has 'unimpeachable credentials,' arguing it was inappropriate for the Chair to express such opinions. The debate erupted during the Question Hour when the affiliation of the National Testing Agency's head was questioned.

In a heated Rajya Sabha session on Thursday, MP Kapil Sibal sharply criticized Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar for his comments extolling the RSS as having 'unimpeachable credentials.' Sibal argued that such views should come from a member, not the Chair, as it deviated from tradition.

Sibal's remarks came in response to Dhankhar's ruling that RSS is constitutionally active in the nation's development and comprises individuals committed to selfless national service. The Chairman made these comments after Samajwadi Party MP Ramji Lal Suman claimed that RSS affiliation influenced the selection of the National Testing Agency head.

Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge defended Suman, stating that members should be allowed to speak without undue interference. Dhankhar, however, maintained his stance, describing RSS as a global think tank of the highest order.

(With inputs from agencies.)