'Made A Mockery Of The Constitution': Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar Slams Opposition For Walking Out During PM Modi's Speech

Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar on Wednesday (3 July) slammed opposition MPs who staged a walkout during PM Modi's speech in the Upper House of the Parliament.

He condemned their walkout during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech, deeming it a "dangerous precedent."

The incident occurred after Dhankhar initially denied Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition, the opportunity to intervene during PM Modi's address.

This led to loud chants of "LoP ko bolne do" ("let the LoP speak") and pleas from Kharge requesting permission.

As the opposition MPs walked out, Dhankhar accused them of "disrespecting" and "challenging" the Constitution, stating they had "disregarded (and) insulted the oath they took."

"Kharge ji insulted his oath by walking out. They (the opposition) have made a mockery of the Constitution. I hope they introspect," Dhankhar said, NDTV reported.

Dhankhar also insisted that he had provided Kharge ample time to respond to the Prime Minister.

"I urged them... told them LoP was given adequate time to speak without interruption. (But they didn't listen). Today they did not leave the House... they left their dignity. Today they did not show me their back... they showed it to the Constitution. They insulted the oath they took. I am pained by this," he remarked.

"They challenged the Constitution. I am hurt to see such disrespect. They made a joke of the Constitution. The Constitution is not a book to hold in your hand. It is a book to live by. I hope they will remember their duty..." he declared. 

"Disruption erodes prestige of this esteemed institution. Even LoP walked into the Well... and that was a disgrace. Their walk out was extremely painful. It has set a dangerous precedent," he said.

Also Read: 'Will Punish Those Responsible For Paper Leaks': 11 Key Highlights From PM Modi's Speech In Rajya Sabha