SP, TDP stage walkout in RS

NEW DELHI: The Samajwadi Party and the TDP on Monday staged a walkout in the Rajya Sabha demanding a debate on the report of Sachar Committee that went into the status of minorities in the country.

Soon after the House mourned the death of sitting member Sukhbuns Kaur, SP members, led by Amar Singh, were on their feet demanding a debate on the Committee's report.

Chairman Bhairon Singh Shekhawat disallowed them from raising the issue saying he would not let Question Hour to be disrupted.

SP members raised slogans blaming Congress for the plight of Muslims. Their slogan-shouting was matched by protests from ruling benches. The Chairman said nothing would go on record.

Soon after, the SP and TDP members walked out of the House.
The issue again figured during Question Hour when a listed question against Abu Asim Azmi (SP) came up for reply.

The SP members demanded a debate and asked Government if it was willing to provide reservation to Muslims.

The demand for debate was also supported by Ravi Shankar Prasad of BJP.