Today in Parliament—Condole first, debate later: Opposition

While several MPs raised slogans of "Narendra Modi sharam karo, sharam karo (shame on Narendra Modi)", "Modi sadan mein jawab do (Modi please reply in the House)", "poonjiwadio ki yeh sarkar nahi chalegi (this government of capitalists will not be tolerated)", "Jan virodhi Narendra Modi sharam karo, sharam karo (shame on anti-people Narendra Modi)," TMC members carried placards with "Financial Emergency" written on them.

Sitaram Yechury (CPI-M) said an obituary reference condoling the death of 70 people due to hardships caused by the demonetisation should be moved by the Chair. He was supported by Mayawati (BSP) who said people have died standing in queues because of hunger, want of medicines and waiting for currency for marriage.

Leader of the Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad (Cong) said while condolences have been expressed for those killed in yesterday's train accident, the same should be done for the 70 people who have lost their lives in last 15 days. "They are also citizens of this country. We want such an obituary reference to come from the Chair," he said, adding that Prime Minister Narenda Modi should also come to the House for the debate.

Yechury asked the Chair to take the opinion of the House on moving a resolution condoling their death. He said the debate could be held after the obituary reference is made by the Chair.

Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha PJ Kurien however virtually ruled it out saying "condolences are not done on demand. That has to come spontaneously. You can approach the Chairman (on that)."

Leader of the House Arun Jaitley accused the opposition of raising new demands and of running away from the debate. BJP members added to the din by vociferously demanding a discussion on demonetisation. Eventually the House was adjourned for the third time till 2 pm.