Congress Demands President's Intervention And PM's Presence In Manipur Debate

The party's leaders called for an open-ended discussion to address the alarming incident involving the public assault of two women, leading to disruptions in Parliament as the opposition seeks an in-depth debate under Rule 176.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 21 July 2023 3:01 pm

President Droupadi Murmu accepted credentials from envoys

The Congress party launched a scathing attack on the government on Friday, accusing it of evading a serious debate on the situation in Manipur. The party called for President Droupadi Murmu's intervention to dismiss the state government, as Congress leaders demanded an open-ended discussion to address the alarming incident involving the public assault of two women.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters, Congress Deputy Leader in Rajya Sabha, Pramod Tiwari, criticized the government for attempting a mere formality by proposing a short-duration debate with time restrictions. In contrast, the opposition demanded an extended discussion to allow all parties to express their views, including the treasury benches. Tiwari challenged the government to commence the debate on Monday morning itself, urging the Prime Minister to present his statement on the Manipur situation in Parliament, according to PTI.

Congress spokesperson, Pawan Khera, urged President Droupadi Murmu to exercise her special powers and dismiss the Manipur government. Taking a swipe at the Prime Minister, Khera questioned why he hasn't visited Manipur to appeal for peace, accusing him of not adhering to "Rajdharma." Khera highlighted that opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has already visited Manipur and connected with the people's pain.

Congress General Secretary, Jairam Ramesh, took to Twitter, asserting that the Manipur Chief Minister must step down immediately, and the Prime Minister should address Parliament to facilitate a thorough discussion on the issue. He criticized the Prime Minister's recent statement on Manipur as diversionary and failing to address the unfolding tragedy in the state since May 3.

Congress Deputy Leader, Pramod Tiwari, pressed for a debate in Rajya Sabha under Rule 176, emphasizing the need for justice for the two assaulted women, which has caused nationwide shame. He accused the BJP of lacking sensitivity towards women.