New Delhi, 1 December (H.S.): A fresh controversy erupted in Parliament on Monday after Congress Rajya Sabha member Renuka Chowdhury arrived at the premises with her pet dog in her car on the opening day of the Winter Session. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) termed the incident a “disrespect” to the sanctity of Parliament and demanded action against the veteran MP.
Defending herself, Chowdhury told reporters that she had rescued an injured puppy on her way to Parliament. “I saw a wounded puppy lying on the road and feared it might get run over, so I picked it up and kept it in the car until I reached Parliament. Later, it was sent back home,” she explained.
Questioning the outrage, Chowdhury said, “How can anyone object to saving an animal’s life? Those who truly bite are running the government inside Parliament—does anyone have a problem with that? When I care for an animal, it suddenly becomes a national issue.”
She added that she has adopted several stray dogs in the past as well.Reacting strongly, BJP MP from Domariyaganj, Jagdambika Pal, said bringing a dog to Parliament was “inappropriate and unacceptable.” He argued, “Parliament is meant for debate and policymaking, not for personal showmanship. Privilege does not mean misuse. As representatives of the people, MPs must maintain decorum. This behaviour disrespects the dignity of the House and the trust of the citizens.”
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla also criticised Chowdhury’s remarks, calling them “a theatrical stunt” and “an insult to Parliament.” He claimed, “Renuka Chowdhury compared her colleagues and parliamentary staff to dogs by saying those who bite are inside Parliament. This is disgraceful. Earlier too, she mocked our soldiers through her comments on 'Operation Mahadev' and 'Operation Sindoor'. The Congress doesn’t want policy—only drama in Parliament.”
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
