New Delhi :Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the third time on Thursday amid the opposition's persistent demand for a discussion on the China-India border issue. As soon as the House reassembled at 2 pm after the second adjournment, opposition members again raised the demand for a discussion on the issue and shouted slogans.
Amid noisy scenes, the standing committee reports and other documents were laid on the table of the House. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said since the winter session would conclude on Friday, important legislative business should be allowed to take place. He also said that in the past, when the UPA was in power, no discussion on such sensitive issue was allowed in the House and the opposition had agreed to that.
Rajendra Agrawal, who was chairing the proceedings, urged the members to allow the House to function smoothly as Thursday was practically the last day to take up legislative business. With the opposition refusing to relent, he adjourned the proceedings till 2 pm.
As Birla began the Question Hour and took up questions related to the Road Transport Ministry, opposition members were on their feet and protested over various issues. Members from the Congress, TMC, Shiv Sena and the DMK demanded a discussion on the border issue with China. Birla asked the Opposition members, who were on their feet, to ask questions and participate in the Question Hour.
"I appeal to you to let the Question Hour run. You are disrupting the proceedings... You don't want the House to function? ... you are answerable to the people," Birla said. As opposition continued its unrelenting protest, Birla adjourned the House till 12 noon. (PTI)
