RS disrupted over new Commission for Backward Classes

The Rajya Sabha on Friday witnessed an uproar and was adjourned for 10 minutes over the government reportedly approving a proposal to create a new National Commission for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes.

The issue was raised soon after the house met for the day's business at 11 a.m. by Ram Gopal Yadav of the Samajwadi Party, who opposed the idea of creating the new Commission, saying the government must protect "reservation and rights" of the Backward Classes of the country.

He was supported by other members from the opposition benches.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot assured the house that reservation of the Backward Classes would not get affected because of the new Commission.

However, the opposition members did not pay any heed to him and gathered in front of the Chair. They shouted slogans against the government.

Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien tried to pacify the members by saying that since the minister has assured them, they should go back to their seats.

The agitated members did not listen to him either. Kurien then adjourned the house for 10 minutes.