BJP, BSP clash in Rajya Sabha on Uttar Pradesh farmers' protest

BJP and BSP members clashed in the Rajya Sabha today on the issue of police firing on farmers in Uttar Pradesh protesting land acquisition.

As BJP demanded a discussion during the Question Hour on the farmers' agitation, BSP strongly opposed the demand saying it was a state subject which cannot be discussed in the House.

The BSP is in power in Uttar Pradesh.

When the House met for the day, leader of the opposition Arun Jaitely said some members have given a notice for suspension of Question Hour so that police action on agitating farmers in Uttar Pradesh could be discussed.

Chairman Hamid Ansari said a decision on the matter would be taken at an appropriate time.

BSP leader Satish Chandra Mishra objected to the demand for discussing the issue saying law and order was a state subject and could not discussed in the Rajya Sabha.

But, opposition members countered him while demanding that they be allowed to air their views.

Mishra then pleaded with the Chair for a ruling on matters relating to state subjects.

"Sir, you please give a ruling that state subjects like law and order issues can be discussed in this House," he said.

When the chairman wanted to proceed with the listed questions, SS Ahluwalia (BJP) said they should be allowed to raise the issue during Zero Hour.

The House then took up the questions.