New Delhi, August 13, 2026 (Yes Punjab News) An alleged “purification” ritual conducted at a Ramlila stage in Haldwani after Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge’s speech triggered a heated exchange in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, leading to repeated disruptions.
Kharge expressed anguish over the incident, saying he had spoken about people’s problems without making any reference to religion or community. He alleged that individuals associated with the BJP subsequently carried out a purification ritual at the venue.
Linking the incident to untouchability, Kharge said his Dalit identity would not prevent him from confronting such insults. He added that he did not seek protection and did not want to politicise the matter.
Responding to Kharge, Leader of the House J.P. Nadda said the incident was painful for everyone and clarified that the BJP did not endorse such practices.
Nadda strongly condemned the alleged act and assured the House that the BJP president and the government would examine the matter and take appropriate action.
Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan also intervened, condemning untouchability and calling for those responsible to be identified and punished.
“If untouchability is not a sin, there is no sin in this world. We all condemn it, irrespective of parties,” he said.
Opposition members continued raising slogans amid the exchange, leading to noisy scenes in the House.
With the Monsoon Session ending on Thursday, the House dispensed with Zero Hour and Question Hour and proceeded to take up the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy moved the Bill, as passed by the Lok Sabha, for consideration, while Tiruchi Siva moved an amendment. A notice of disapproval submitted by Praveen Chakravarty was rejected by the Chair on the ground that it did not comply with the rules of procedure.
Opposition MPs continued raising slogans over the Ram Temple issue and demanding the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, but proceedings on the Bill continued.
Earlier, ministers laid various papers and reports on the Table of the House. Shripad Yesso Naik also tabled a CAG report concerning capacity expansion of hydro power central public sector enterprises.
Statements on the implementation of recommendations contained in various parliamentary committee reports concerning MSMEs, the Department of Personnel and Training, Information and Broadcasting, and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region were also made.
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