A controversy erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Government of deploying Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel inside the Upper House, questioning the intent behind what he termed a "militarisation" of Parliament proceedings.
"Are we terrorists?" Kharge thundered, drawing sharp reactions from the treasury benches. "Why is the CISF being brought in? This is not just about security — this is an attempt to intimidate the Opposition and undermine democracy," he said, prompting uproar and sloganeering from members.
Kharge claimed that the unusual security presence signaled a deeper erosion of democratic values and accused the BJP of trying to suppress dissent within the Parliament.
Deputy Chairperson Harivansh quickly intervened to clarify that no CISF personnel had entered the Rajya Sabha. "Only Parliament Security Service staff is deployed here, as per established norms," he stated firmly, seeking to quell concerns and restore order.
Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and JP Nadda also refuted Kharge's claims, accusing the Congress leader of spreading misinformation. "This is an attempt to politicise routine security measures. The CISF has no role inside the House," Rijiju said, calling Kharge's remarks "baseless and inflammatory."
Nadda echoed the sentiment, adding, "Such statements only create confusion and erode the dignity of the Parliament." The session was briefly adjourned amid heated exchanges. While Opposition members demanded a formal inquiry and clarification from the Government, the Treasury benches accused them of manufacturing outrage for political gain. The incident has added fuel to an already contentious Monsoon Session, with both sides locked in repeated clashes over legislative priorities and procedural issues.
As the House reconvened, tensions remained high, and the question of transparency and security protocols in the Parliament continued to dominate the day's agenda.