Opposition derails pre-lunch sitting of RS; House adjourned twice

The House demanded a statement from PM Modi on forcible religious conversions

For the fifth day in succession, a united opposition led by Congress today created turmoil in Rajya Sabha demanding a reply from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on forcible religious conversions, leading to two adjournments before lunch.

Leader of the Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad made a forceful demand that Modi should reply to a debate on the controversy but the government's stand was unchanged that it is ready for a discussion and the concerned minister will reply.

This led to slogan shouting opposition members trooping into the Well, forcing Deputy Chairman P J Kurien to adjourn the proceedings till noon.

Azad, who had been away from the House for most part of the session to campaign for Jammu and Kashmir polls, said religious conversion by force or allurement of money, ration card or BPL card is not only unconstitutional but also unlawful and criminal offence.

He said the reception Prime Minister receives when he goes abroad is because he represents the 125-crore multi-religion country.

In past when there was doubts that he did not represent all sections, he was not welcome in foreign land with some countries imposing restrictions, he said.

Modi during general elections asked for votes for himself and not even for his party - BJP, he said. He won the mandate on the plea that he will be answerable if the people of the country empower him, Azad said.

"Unhone dard diya hai, toh dawa bhi woh hi denge (he gave pain, now he will give remedy)," he said, adding Modi should give confidence to Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and others that they are "not just safe in the country but also their religion is safe."

He said the Opposition is not asking Modi to stand on the street and apologise but is only asking him to learn from leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and respect the House, come to Rajya Sabha and listen to the debate and reply to it.