The Bihar Legislative Assembly’s Monsoon Session commenced amidst discussions on a recent student protest in Patna. The session saw intense debates between the ruling NDA and the Opposition regarding the police response to the protest, which involved lathi-charges and tear gas. The ruling party accused the protesters of being politically motivated, while the Opposition criticized the government’s handling of the situation.
The issue took center stage in the Assembly even before the Question Hour, with a BJP legislator alleging that the demonstrators were not genuine students but instigated agitators. He claimed that the protest posed a threat to his life and that of other BJP legislators. The MLA emphasized the importance of peaceful protests, condemning violence and vandalism.
Cabinet Minister Shravan Kumar expressed concerns that the agitation was not student-led but orchestrated by political elements. He criticized the involvement of certain political parties in the protest, stating that such actions disrupt law and order. The Minister emphasized the right to peaceful protests in a democracy but condemned the violent incidents that occurred during the demonstration.
The ruling party’s accusations sparked strong reactions from the Opposition, who accused the government of stifling student voices and demanded accountability for the police’s actions. The Opposition MLAs protested inside the House, leading to disruptions in the proceedings. The Assembly Speaker intervened, urging members from both sides to maintain decorum and engage in constructive debates for the Assembly’s smooth functioning.
