LS adjourned for the day over Nandigram issue

New Delhi, Nov 19 (UNI) The violence and bloodshed in Nandigram in West Bengal rocked the Lok Sabha today, forcing its adjournment for the day after the Opposition stalled the proceedings during Question and Zero Hours.

With the BJP-led Opposition benches demanding a discussion on the issue and the Marxist members opposing it, the House was plunged into disorder as soon as the Lower House began its day's sitting.

This led to the adjournment of the house till 1200 hrs.

There was no change in the mood of the Opposition when the House reassembled.

They started creating noisy scenes after External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee made a statement on the assistance extended by India to Bangladesh to tide over the calamitous situation caused by the severe cylonic storm 'Sidr.' The Opposition members were on their feet with BJP Deputy Leader V K Malhotra demanding that the Nandigram issue must be taken up first. The Marxist members were seen shouting at the Opposition benches. Speaker Somnath Chatterjee said the issue was not listed and therefore he could not allow any discussion.

When the Opposition continued with their protest, the Chair adjourned the House for the day.

Earlier, Mr Malhotra demanded suspension of the Question Hour to discuss the issue. They were supported by their allies.

The Speaker said all sides should first congratulate the Indian Cricket Team for winning the one-day series against Pakistan.

''Let us share something good,'' he said, and asked the Opposition members to let the Question Hour begin.

''I will hear you after the Question Hour. I am not undermining anything Mr Malhotra,'' he said.

With one BJP member shouting slogan against the CPI (M) for unleashing violence in Nandigram, CPI (M) members flared up.

Both sides tried to shout each other down.

Mr Chatterjee then adjourned the House till noon after ten minutes of its meeting.

UNI