JD(U) MPs create uproar over protests by Asaram supporters

JD(U) MPs today created an uproar in Lok Sabha over the alleged protests by a few supporters of Asaram Bapu at the residence of party leader Sharad Yadav for seeking action against the controversial self-styled godman.

As soon as the House re-assembled at 2 PM, JD(U) MPs led by Rajeev Ranjan Singh 'Lallan' raised the issue and sought a response from the Government.

Unaware of the development, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath said the issue raised by members may be a matter of urgent importance and it can be considered later on.

He requested them to allow the House to start debate on Land Acquisition Bill.

As the JD(U) MPs continued their protest, Speaker Meira Kumar said she was also not aware of the issue being raised by members.

The Speaker said she would have allowed them to raise the matter had they communicated the matter at least five minutes ahead of the functioning of the House.

When the MPs continued their protest, she allowed Sharad Yadav to speak.

Yadav said that a few supporters of the controversial godman had visited his residence here this morning. He demanded that entire Parliament has to take 'cognizance' of such a move from the supporters of a controversial figure.

He said the Government should speak on the issue.

Yadav, however, said the issue can be discussed tomorrow, as the House wanted to transact an important business --consideration and passage of Land Acquisition Bill.

He requested his party MPs to cooperate with the Government in transacting the business.

While speaking on the Mumbai gangrape incident on August 26 in Lok Sabha, Yadav had sought action against the self-styled godman against whom a young girl has slapped rape charges.

His supporters today went to his residence to ask him to withdraw the statement he had made against Asaram.

RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav also sought action against Asaram Bapu and his supporters.