Rahul Gandhi spoke in public interest, pointing out govt shortcomings Opp duty: Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
Referring to the allegations against the Adani group, Chowdhury said Gandhi has “fulfilled his duty as an elected representative” by raising the issue in “public interest”.
Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury speaks in the Lok Sabha during Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Friday, Feb. 10, 2023. (PTI)
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With the Lok Sabha Secretariat asking Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to respond to the breach of privilege notices given by BJP members regarding his remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the House, Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday wrote to Speaker Om Birla, saying the function of the Opposition is to point out the shortcomings of the government and that “we are failing to do our Constitutional duty” if the voice of the Opposition is not allowed to be heard.
Referring to the allegations against the Adani group, Chowdhury said Gandhi has “fulfilled his duty as an elected representative” by raising the issue in “public interest”. He argued that BJP members have in the past made unsubstantiated allegations against former PMs and made “derogatory remarks” against Gandhi and his family members but were never reprimanded.
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Referring to the notices by BJP members seeking permission to move privilege motions against Gandhi, Chowdhury said: “In the notice… it has been stated that Gandhi has made certain remarks on the functioning of the PM without giving prior notice under Rule 353 of the Rules of Procedure.”
“Proviso to this Rule states that the Speaker may prohibit the members from making such allegation if he is to the opinion and allegation is derogatory and that no public interest is served. A literal interpretation of the rules is specifically stated that an allegation cannot be made against any person who is not a Member of the House unless that is necessary in the public interest,” he said, noting that Gandhi had raised the issue in public interest.
“The function of the opposition parties is to point out the shortcomings of the government so that they are rectified and the nation progresses. If the voice of the opposition is not allowed to be heard, we are failing to do our constitutional duty,” he said.
Manoj C G currently serves as the Chief of National Political Bureau at The Indian Express. A veteran journalist with a career spanning nearly two decades, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the publication's coverage of India's political landscape.
Experience & Career: Manoj has built a robust career in political journalism, marked by a transition from wire service reporting to in-depth newspaper analysis.
The Indian Express (2008 – Present): He joined the organization in 2008 and has risen to lead the National Political Bureau, overseeing key political coverage.
Press Trust of India (PTI): Prior to his tenure at The Indian Express, Manoj worked with India’s premier news agency, PTI, honing his skills in breaking news and accurate reporting.
Expertise & Focus Areas: As a seasoned political observer, Manoj focuses on the nuances of governance and party dynamics.
National Politics: extensive reporting on the central government, parliamentary affairs, and national elections.
Political Strategy: Deep analysis of party structures, coalition politics, and the shifting ideologies within the Indian political spectrum.
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