TMC accuses BJP of misusing agencies in Rajya Sabha

In the Rajya Sabha, tension rose as Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saket Gokhale spoke about the Union home ministry. Gokhale accused the BJP of misusing central agencies to target opposition parties. He claimed that Home Minister Amit Shah was "afraid" of being questioned. Gokhale's comments sparked a heated exchange, with BJP leaders alleging that he made "casteist" remarks. Gokhale defended his statements, emphasizing that he would not yield to Shah. The debate grew contentious as he shared data on corruption cases pending with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded by stating that he has been elected seven times and is not afraid. He urged Gokhale to provide accurate information. BJP national president JP Nadda then called for Gokhale to apologize for his remarks, but Gokhale refused. He insisted it was his right to discuss these issues. Rajya Sabha Speaker Jagdeep Dhankhar intervened, asking Gokhale to withdraw his comments. Dhankhar described some of Gokhale's remarks as "unparliamentary" and said they would be removed from the record. TMC members protested, emphasizing their right to discuss matters in the House. Gokhale further aggravated the situation by referring to "tanashahi," a term implying dictatorship, which drew sharp criticism from the ruling party. Government officials argued that Gokhale's approach was negative and did not contribute to constructive discussion. They urged him to elevate the standards of discourse in the Rajya Sabha.