Reflection of JD-U, BJP's changed political equations

In a clear reflection of changed political equations, JD(U) today vehemently opposed BJP's bid to seek an early discussion in Rajya Sabha on the issue of firing by Pakistani forces on Indian soldiers.

As there was no unanimity among the Opposition over the issue, Leader of Opposition Arun Jaitley, withdrew his proposal to discuss the incident before a statement by Defence Minister A K Antony.

This is first Parliament session after JD(U) walked out of NDA on June 16 snapping the 17-years-old alliance with BJP in protest of Narendra Modi's elevation in that party.

Members from Congress and LJP also supported the JD(U).

The issue of the killing of Indian soldiers by Pakistani forces led to an uproar in Upper House during Zero Hour with BJP seeking a reply from Government immediately.

Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajiv Shukla told the House that Antony will make a statement at 3.30 PM to which BJP leader M Venkaiah Naidu reacted strongly saying it should be at the earliest.

As members from TDP were shouting in the Well against bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, Deputy Chairman P J Kurien adjourned the House for 15 minutes.

When the House resumed at 12:35, Jaitley suggested if the Chairman agrees, a discussion on the issue can take place before the minister gets a statement to which Shukla readily agreed saying "we have no objection..."

JD(U) MP Shivanand Tewari was the first member in the House to raise objection to it saying "this will be an entirely wrong process."

He said the discussion would take place on facts given by the government as so far whatever has come in public domain is based on media reports.

Tewari continued to protest even as Shukla expressed government's readiness to accept Jaitley's proposal.