Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has criticized Upper House Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar for his recent praise of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling Dhankhar’s remarks contrary to parliamentary tradition. Sibal argued that such opinions should be voiced by members rather than the Chair. The controversy erupted after Dhankhar endorsed the RSS as having “unimpeachable credentials” during a session, leading to a heated debate on the appropriateness of the Chair’s comments.
BulletsIn
- Kapil Sibal criticized Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar for praising the RSS.
- Dhankhar described the RSS as having “unimpeachable credentials” and contributing selflessly to the nation.
- Sibal argued that such opinions should be expressed by members of the House, not the Chair.
- The controversy began during the Question Hour when Ramji Lal Suman of the Samajwadi Party alleged that RSS affiliation influenced the selection of the NTA head.
- Dhankhar ruled that Suman’s comments would not be recorded and defended the RSS’s role in national development.
- Dhankhar stated that the RSS is a global think tank and praised its contributions to culture and national welfare.
- Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge defended Suman, stating that his comments were within parliamentary rules.
- Kharge criticized Dhankhar’s intervention, asserting that it was inappropriate.
- Dhankhar emphasized that the RSS has full constitutional rights to participate in the nation’s development.
- The debate highlighted tensions over the role of the Chair in expressing personal opinions versus maintaining neutrality.
