The Rajya Sabha witnessed an uproar on Thursday after Ghulam Nabi Azad, the leader of the Opposition in the Upper House, made comments linking casualties in September’s Uri attack to the deaths reported after the government’s sudden decision to ban high-value currencies.
In a sharp rebuttal, ruling side termed Azad’s remarks “anti-national” and demanded an apology from his Congress party.
Heated exchanges broke out between treasury and opposition benches after Azad said 40 people had died following the move to scrap Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes last week . He said these many deaths did not take place even after a militant attack on an Indian Army base in northern Kashmir’s Uri that killed 19 soldiers.
“Who should be punished” for the death of these 40 people which occurred due to a “wrong policy” on demonetisation? he asked. “Millions of people are troubled. BJP and government are responsible.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s surprise move, which the government said was aimed at rooting out black money and corruption, last week has sparked chaos and confusion across the country, with millions of consumers queued outside banks and ATMs to change a limited number of old notes for new ones or withdraw cash. There have been reports of people dying while waiting in queues or due to shock after the move
Azad’s comments drew massive protests from members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, with information and broadcasting minister M Venkaiah Naidu saying the remarks are “anti-national”.
An angry Naidu said Pakistan will use these comments against India, stressing the Congress should apologise for it. He also requested deputy chairman PJ Kurien to expunge the remarks.
Chaos ensued, and the house was prematurely adjourned for the day, minutes past 3pm.
Source:- Hindustan Times.
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