CBI-Mamata row: RS proceedings washed out again

Rajya Sabha proceedings were on Tuesday washed out for the second day in a row following protests by Opposition parties, including the TMC, SP and Congress, over the alleged misuse of the CBI in West Bengal.

Soon after the House resumed proceedings in the afternoon, members of the TMC, SP and Congress trooped into the Well raising slogans like "Save Constitution, save nation".

Deputy Chairman Harivansh said Opposition members can raise issues under laid down rules and procedures of the House and they should allow discussion on the 'motion of thanks' on the President's address.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Goel said there was no morality in protesting in Parliament as the Supreme Court order on the issue has already come.

When the Opposition did not relent, the deputy chairman adjourned the House for the day.

In the morning also, the House was adjourned amid protests by Opposition parties including TMC and Congress members.

Soon after ministers laid the listed papers on the table, TMC member Derek O'Brien wanted to raise the CBI issue.

Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said he has not accepted the notices given by different members on this issue, but permitted Derek O'Brien to speak on the matter during Zero Hour.

Asking members to maintain order in the House, Naidu had said all issues could be raised while debating the President's address to the joint sitting of Parliament.

Members from the TMC and some other Opposition parties started raising slogans and trooped into the Well. Some Congress members were in the aisle before the adjournment of the House.

As repeated requests for continuation of scheduled business went unheard, Naidu adjourned the House till 2 pm.