Moga shame heats up Parliament

The alleged molestation and death of a teenaged girl in Moga, Punjab, resonated in both the Houses of Parliament on Tuesday, with the Opposition demanding a discussion on the issue and the Rajya Sabha witnessing two adjournments.

Soon after the Rajya Sabha met for the day, Congress members raised the issue with Ambika Sonia, alleging that there was a complete breakdown of law and order in Punjab, necessitating the Centre’s intervention.

Leader of the Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said it was a “very serious issue as those who are ruling the state are owners of the bus...Police action has been only against those involved in the molestation but owners of the bus have been left out.”

In the Lok Sabha, Congress members disrupted proceedings of the House, causing several adjournments. “Law and order situation in Punjab is bleak,” said Amarinder Singh.  

Other parties in RS, including the Left, joined in the protest with Mayawati (BSP) demanding imposition of President’s rule in the state.