'PM's silence over reconversions may mean support'

The silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of reconversions is in a way supporting it, Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said Friday.

"Prime minister is the head of the family. If the children are doing something wrong he must not close his eyes to it like Dhritrashtra," Azad said during an interation with women journalists at Indian Women Press Corps (IWPC).

"If he continues to be silent over the issue, it means he is supporting it," said the Congress leader.

Rajya Sabha witnessed disruptions and stalling of business for nearly seven days in the recently concluded winter session as opposition parties united demanding a clarification from Modi over recoversions, or Ghar Wapsi agenda of right wing organisations and the alleged communal statements by some BJP leaders.

"Government is squarely responsible for the disruptions," he said.

The Congress leader however said opposition was on the same page as government as far as the legislative business is concerned.

"As far as the bills are concerned, government and opposition were on the same page. Prime minister could have made a statement and the house would have proceeded," said Azad.

The disruptions in Rajya Sabha resulted in stalling of crucial reform bills like the coal mines bill and insurance bill.

He also said the very thought of calling a joint session for passage of certain bills is undemocratic.

"The very thought of calling a joint session for passing some bills is undemocratic. It means you are not willing to heed to opposition's demands. It would also mean doing away with the Rajya Sabha," said Azad.