The Samajwadi Party, the Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday created a ruckus in the Lok Sabha, forcing adjournments, seeking a CBI probe into the “lavish rally” organised by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati in Lucknow on Monday.
Interestingly some Congress members, including the former U.P. Minister Jagadambika Pal, joined the Opposition in seeking action against Ms. Mayawati. Some members were heard shouting that a garland, made of currency notes in the denomination of Rs.1,000 and presented to Ms. Mayawati at the rally, organised to mark the 25th anniversary of the BSP, was worth over Rs.10 crore.
Mr. Pal, who was seen vociferously demanding a CBI probe, told The Hindu outside the House that Ms. Mayawati, an elected representative and who had taken the oath of office, violated the provisions of the Constitution by accepting the garland made of money. Only a thorough inquiry would bring out the source of money, said the MP from Domariyaganj.
It all started during zero hour. As the din continued, Speaker Meira Kumar, after refusing permission to raise the matter without notice, adjourned the House till 1 p.m. When it re-assembled, the Opposition continued shouting, forcing Deputy Speaker Karia Munda, who was in the chair, to adjourn the House till 2 p.m. As the trouble continued post-lunch, Mr. Munda announced adjournment until the House assembles on April 12, after recess.
