Congress MLAs Stage Walkout in Haryana Assembly Over Alleged House Arrests
The fourth day of the Haryana legislative assembly's budget session on Wednesday was dominated by heated exchanges and dramatic protests, as Congress MLAs staged a walkout over the alleged detention of party office-bearers and functionaries in Haryana and Chandigarh. The opposition party accused the state government of suppressing democratic voices, leading to a tense confrontation in the House.
Zero Hour Sparks Controversy with Photographic Evidence
During the zero hour, Congress legislators circulated photographs purportedly showing party office-bearers and functionaries being placed under house arrest. Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda demanded an immediate clarification from the government regarding these alleged detentions, arguing that such actions undermined democratic principles and freedom of expression.
In response, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini firmly defended the state government's position, categorically denying any involvement by the police in detaining or restricting individuals. Saini emphasized that his administration is committed to fostering democratic dialogue and has never avoided discussions on substantive issues.
CM Saini Accuses Opposition of Misleading Public
Saini criticized the Congress for what he described as a pattern of "unfounded and politically motivated allegations." He asserted that the photographs presented in the assembly did not provide credible evidence to support the claims of house arrests. The Chief Minister suggested that the opposition was increasingly resorting to sensationalism rather than focusing on genuine policy matters.
As arguments escalated, Hooda and other Congress MLAs decided to walk out in protest. While exiting the assembly, Hooda briefly interacted with Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi and CM Saini, highlighting the deepening rift between the ruling party and the opposition.
Post-Walkout Developments and Police Deployment
Shortly after leaving the assembly, CM Saini addressed the media, reiterating his stance that the opposition's allegations lacked factual basis. He referenced previous instances, such as claims of EVM tampering and vote theft, which he said were similarly unsubstantiated. Saini contended that the recent house arrest accusations appeared to be another attempt to create confusion among the public.
Meanwhile, Congress MLAs joined protesting party functionaries and workers at the Haryana Congress headquarters in Sector 9, Chandigarh. A heavy police force was deployed to prevent the agitating Congress members from reaching the assembly complex. The protest was organized as part of the Congress's ‘MNREGA Bachao Sangram Abhiyan,’ a campaign aimed at safeguarding the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.
Congress Leaders Court Arrest in Symbolic Protest
The demonstration was led by AICC general secretary B K Hariparsad, accompanied by co-incharge Jitender Baghel, Lok Sabha MPs Jai Parkash, Varun Chaudhary, Deepender Hooda, and Satpal Brahamchari, along with HPCC president Rao Narender Singh and several MLAs. The group commenced a march from the Congress office but was halted by police at a short distance.
In a symbolic act of defiance, the protesters voluntarily courted arrest and were subsequently released. This move underscored the ongoing political tensions in Haryana, with both sides digging in their heels over issues of governance and democratic rights.
The incident highlights the volatile political climate in the state, as the budget session continues amidst allegations and counter-allegations between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.
