The development comes amid repeated demands from the Opposition for Shah to make a statement in Parliament over the crackdown on protesters
The Centre on Monday said it was ready for a detailed discussion in Parliament on the student protests and the police action against demonstrators, including the use of force during recent clashes in Delhi.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said Home Minister Amit Shah was prepared to respond to questions from the Opposition on the issue.
The development comes amid repeated demands from the Opposition for Shah to make a statement in Parliament over the crackdown on protesters. The Opposition has raised questions over allegations of pellet gun use in Delhi and the reported use of firearms, including an AK-47, during a protest-related incident in Siwan, Bihar.
Rijiju, however, warned the Opposition against disrupting proceedings when the government responds. He said the government was willing to hold a full discussion but expected Opposition members to listen to the Home Minister’s response without creating disturbances.
Rahul Gandhi steps up attack on Amit Shah
The government’s statement came shortly after Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi criticised Shah over his handling of the protests in a column published in The Hindu.
Gandhi accused the Home Minister of failing to order an inquiry into the police action or make a statement in Parliament. He alleged that the government had used excessive force against students protesting over examination irregularities.
More from IndiaGandhi also highlighted the case of 19-year-old student protester Sahil Lochab, whom he said he had met. According to Gandhi, the student suffered multiple pellet injuries, including one near his eye that could affect his vision.
The Congress leader further alleged that police personnel assaulted women and minors during the protests and claimed that students in Siwan were injured after firearms were used against demonstrators.
July 20 Delhi protest turned violent
The controversy stems from demonstrations in Delhi over alleged examination irregularities and paper leaks. On July 20, protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar and attempted to march towards Parliament.
The situation escalated when police intervened to stop the march. Tear gas was used and protesters were dispersed with batons, leading to clashes and several detentions.
The Opposition has since demanded an explanation from the Home Minister over the police response. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge had raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha last week and sought a statement from Shah.
At the time, Rijiju rejected the Opposition’s demand to decide which minister should come to Parliament and when. He also defended Shah against allegations that he was avoiding the House, saying the Home Minister regularly remained in the Parliament complex for long hours.
Centre asks Opposition not to disrupt proceedings
Rijiju’s latest remarks indicate that the government is now willing to allow a broader discussion on the protests and the police action.
He said the government had made its position clear and was prepared to address all issues related to the student movement. At the same time, he urged Opposition parties not to interrupt the proceedings when Shah or the government gives its response.
The issue is likely to remain politically contentious as Parliament debates the allegations of excessive force against protesters.
The Opposition is seeking accountability over the police action, while the government has maintained that it is willing to discuss the matter within Parliament, provided proceedings are allowed to continue without disruption.
