New Delhi, 2 December (H.S.):

The Rajya Sabha witnessed intense uproar on Tuesday as opposition members demanded an immediate discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. Despite the chaos, Chairman CP Radhakrishnan continued zero hour proceedings, during which members raised various issues including pollution, water scarcity, and establishment of a Bhojpuri academy in Uttar Pradesh.

Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge pressed for an urgent debate on SIR, invoking Rule 267 which mandates naming members who submit notices and specifying the issue for discussion. He urged the Chairman to focus on a pressing matter, accusing Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju of avoiding the SIR debate.

Chairman Radhakrishnan responded that the minister had considered the matter and would respond later.Kharge reiterated the demand for immediate discussions. Leader of the House JP Nadda stated that a meeting between the Parliamentary Affairs Minister and opposition leaders would take place soon, after which a decision would be made.

Minister Rijiju requested that no strict timelines be imposed, highlighting the multiplicity of issues facing the nation and urging the opposition not to prioritize one issue over others.DMK member Tiruchi Siva raised a point of order under Rule 239, questioning why SIR was not being allowed for discussion, stating that the refusal to accept the notice under Rule 267 lacked explanation.

As protests and slogan-shouting intensified, Chairman Radhakrishnan adjourned the house till 2 p.m.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar