Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury Faces Privilege Breach Notice for Bringing Stray Dog to Parliament
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Renuka Chowdhury has been formally served a privilege breach notice for her actions during the Winter Session of Parliament, which included bringing a stray dog onto the premises and making contentious remarks about fellow members. The notice, issued by Rajya Sabha MPs Brij Lal and Indu Bala Goswami, alleges that her conduct violated parliamentary privilege and protocol. Chowdhury has been directed to submit her response by February 23, as per parliamentary procedures.
Incident Details and Chowdhury's Defense
The controversy erupted on December 1, the opening day of the Winter Session, when Chowdhury brought a stray puppy to the Parliament complex. She later explained that she had rescued the animal after witnessing a road accident involving a scooter and a car on her way to Parliament. "Is there any law? I was on my way. A scooter collided with a car. This little puppy was wandering on the road. I thought it would get hit by the wheel. So I picked it up, put it in the car, came to Parliament, and sent it back. The car left, and so did the dog. So what's the point of this discussion?" she stated, asserting that no rule prohibits MPs from bringing animals into Parliament.
Escalation Through Controversial Remarks
The situation intensified when Chowdhury defended her actions with provocative comments targeting the ruling BJP. "The real dogs are sitting in Parliament. They run the government. We take care of a mute animal, and this has become a big issue," she remarked. Earlier, when questioned about the potential privilege motion, she mimicked a dog's bark, saying, "Bhow, bhow… aur kya bolun?" and promised a "munhtod" reply if the motion were brought forward.
Chowdhury also criticized the focus on the incident, arguing that more pressing national issues deserve attention. "People are dying because of pollution and no one is worried… Labour laws are being forced upon us… but Renuka Chowdhury’s dog has rattled everyone. What can I say? I will continue to take care of animals," she added.
Political Reactions and Criticism
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal condemned Chowdhury's actions, labeling them a "tamasha" and a breach of protocol. He emphasized that members are not allowed to bring unauthorized individuals or animals into Parliament without proper documentation and urged the Chairman to take disciplinary action. "She is a member of the House and should raise issues of public importance instead of indulging in such drama," Pal stated.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also weighed in on the controversy, questioning the uproar over the dog. "Dog is the main topic of today, I believe. What has the poor dog done. The dog had come here. Why is it not allowed?" he said, noting that while pets are generally not permitted, exceptions might exist.
Response and Parliamentary Norms
According to sources close to Chowdhury cited by news agency ANI, she plans to respond to the privilege notice in accordance with parliamentary rules, norms, and conventions. The motion by MPs Brij Lal and Indu Bala Goswami underscores the seriousness with which parliamentary privileges are upheld, aiming to maintain decorum and protocol within the legislative body.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions between political parties in India, with animal welfare and parliamentary conduct becoming focal points of debate. As the February 23 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Chowdhury's formal response and any subsequent actions by the Rajya Sabha authorities.
