Rijiju inaugurates National Parliamentarians' Badminton Championship in Delhi

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday, Aug 7th inaugurated the sixth National Parliamentarians' Badminton Championship at the Constitution Club of India, saying the event reflected unity and camaraderie among lawmakers beyond political differences.

The championship has drawn participation from sitting and former Members of Parliament across party lines and will conclude on Aug. 9.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Rijiju said the tournament gave former and current MPs an opportunity to interact, adding that sport fostered friendship despite political differences.

"The heated exchanges that take place inside Parliament are one thing, but everyone here stands united in the realm of sports," he said.

BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy, secretary (administration) of the Constitution Club, said the event reflected the spirit of friendship among parliamentarians regardless of political affiliations.

BJP MP Anurag Thakur said the championship embodied the spirit of the 'Fit India' and 'Khelo India' campaigns and urged people to devote at least 30 minutes a day to physical activity.

He said MPs were participating despite their busy schedules to encourage young people to stay fit, avoid substance abuse and take up sports.