Congress "Against Committee, Won't Name MP" To Probe Rajya Sabha Chaos

Last month sources told NDTV a committee of MPs - from the ruling BJP and opposition - was likely to be formed to investigate the chaos and take action, if needed

The Congress on Friday distanced itself from any committee investigating the August 11 chaos in the Rajya Sabha - when opposition MPs and security staff jostled with each other, leading to allegations of assault on women members and an abrupt end to Parliament's monsoon session. The Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge, who is the Leader of the Opposition, wrote to Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu and claimed an investigation would constitute an attempt to bully MPs into silence about their protests and the people's concerns. "Therefore," Mr Kharge, wrote, "the Congress is against setting up a committee to inquire into the events of August 11, and will not nominate a representative for any such committee." Source have told NDTV at least 17 other opposition parties will write a similar letter to Mr Naidu, and refuse to nominate party members.