In a dramatic turn of events, the Delhi Police on Friday transferred the investigation into Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s alleged altercation with BJP MPs during a scuffle in Parliament to the Crime Branch. The incident reportedly led to injuries sustained by BJP MPs, but no FIR has been registered against Gandhi or others involved.
The Congress, in a counter-complaint, alleged that BJP MPs had physically manhandled Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. Adding to the controversy, BJP MP Phangnon Konyak accused Gandhi of standing too close to her during the incident, a charge that the National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of, citing “misconduct.”
BJP MPs Hospitalized
The scuffle on Thursday reportedly resulted in two BJP MPs, Mukesh Rajput and Pratap Sarangi, being hospitalized at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Dr. Ajay Shukla, the hospital’s medical superintendent, stated, “Mukesh Rajput experienced giddiness and head heaviness, while Pratap Sarangi, with a pre-existing heart condition, sustained a forehead injury requiring stitches.” Both MPs are under observation in the ICU, with their conditions reported as stable.
Crime Branch Steps In
The Crime Branch has intensified its probe, planning to record statements from the injured MPs and other lawmakers who witnessed the altercation. The team has requested CCTV footage from the Parliament Secretariat to examine the events. Medical reports of the injured MPs are also being reviewed to establish the severity of their injuries.
Political Fallout
The incident has sparked one of the most contentious episodes in recent parliamentary history, with both the NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc trading accusations. While BJP leaders have condemned Gandhi’s actions, the Congress has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.
As investigations unfold, the case has further strained an already tumultuous Winter Session of Parliament, raising questions about decorum and the conduct of elected representatives in the nation’s highest legislative body.