RS plunges into turmoil, adjourned till tomorrow on Pathak report

New Delhi, Aug 7 (UNI) Rajya Sabha plunged into turmoil on the issue of 'leakage' of Pathak Authority report and was subsequently adjourned for the day today in the post-lunch session as both opposition and treasury benches traded charges and indulged in slogan shouting in the House.

As soon as the House assembled at 1400 Hrs, BJP leader Sushma Swaraj said that during Question Hour, they had raised the issue of ''insult to the House. Interrupting her, Congress members were on their feet and did not allow her to speak.

The entire opposition including BJP, SP and JDU, were also on their feet and shouted slogans saying 'Let Natwar Singh speak.' Chairman Bhairon Singh Shekhawat tried at least three times to restore some order and requested the members to allow the House to function.

He said he had received many Privilege Notices including one from former External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh. All these were under consideration, he said.

This did not pacify the members from both sides who kept on shouting slogans and trading charges.

BJP members marched into the well of the House.

The drama continued for 15 minutes, after which the Chairman adjourned the House till tomorrow.

Earlier in the pre-lunch session, an angry Opposition, led by the BJP, forced adjournment of the Rajya Sabha twice XXX Eds: here Pick up from opening para of PAR 12, PATHAK REPORT-RS-LEAD ADJOURNED.

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