Tensions Soar Between Rajya Sabha Chair and Opposition

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and the INDIA bloc face escalating tensions as the opposition considers a resolution to remove Dhankhar from office. The conflict centers on claims of partisan behavior by the Chair, leading to repeated walkouts and heated exchanges in the Upper House.

Escalating tensions between Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and INDIA bloc members may soon result in the opposition submitting a resolution to remove the Vice President. Sources suggest that the opposition aims to shed light on what they call Dhankhar's 'blatantly and consistently partisan' approach.

Article 67(b) of the Constitution allows for the removal of the Vice-President through a resolution, provided a 14-day notice period. According to sources, 87 opposition members have already signed the proposal. Informal conversations have been held with key figures, including Leader of the House J P Nadda, about this impending move.

Complaints include frequent shutdowns of the Leader of Opposition's microphone and lack of adherence to procedural rules. The opposition walked out of the House, protesting against what they termed as 'unacceptable' conduct by the Chair. Subsequently, senior leaders, including Congress's Ajay Maken and Jaya Bachchan, criticized Dhankhar's tone and demeanor, noting that such behavior undermines democratic processes.

(With inputs from agencies.)