Jagdeep Dhankhar backs RSS; Opposition walkout in RS

On Wednesday, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar defended the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), describing it as an organization that serves the nation selflessly. His comments came in response to remarks by Samajwadi Party lawmaker Ramji Suman concerning the appointment of the National Testing Agency chairperson and his affiliation with the RSS.

Dhankhar stated that criticizing the RSS, which he described as having "unimpeachable credentials," was against the Constitution. He emphasized that the RSS has the right to be part of the country’s developmental journey and that he would not allow any remarks singling out the organization to be recorded.

“RSS has unimpeachable credentials,” said Dhankhar. He took umbrage over Suman's comments, stating he would not permit such remarks to stand. He stressed that criticizing an organization involved in national work was unconstitutional and reiterated the RSS's right to participate in the country's development.

Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge objected to Dhankhar's stance, arguing that the chairman cannot object unless the member transgressed the rules of business. However, Dhankhar responded by saying he could interrupt when there is a transgression and claimed that the member was "trampling the Constitution of India."

The session saw a walkout by Opposition parties, including the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Biju Janata Dal, in protest of Dhankhar's defense of the RSS.