Jaitley returns, votes in RS deputy chair polls

Union minister Arun Jaitley, who is recuperating after a kidney transplant surgery, appeared in public for the first time by attending Parliament to vote in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election.

Jaitley walked into the Rajya Sabha just before 11 am to a thumping of desks by members cutting across party lines.

People greeted Jaitley from a distance to ensure that he does not catch an infection. Some BJP leaders were seen instructing MPs who were coming near Jaitley to keep a distance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Leader of the Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad referred to Jaitley's presence in the House. Modi was seen extending his hand to shake hands but Jaitley gestured that he could not do so.

Jaitley also spoke in the House to congratulate JD(U) MP Harivansh who was elected the deputy chairperson.