FDI issue rocks Parl again, both Houses adjourned for day

New Delhi, Nov 29: The political upheaval over FDI in retail failed to subside today despite an all-party meeting, with a united opposition, joined by UPA constituents Trinamool Congress and DMK, stalling proceedings by remaining adamant on their demand for a rollback.

No business was transacted in either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha as trouble started as soon as the Houses met for the day.

Earlier, an all-party meeting convened by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee over the FDI issue resulted in a failure with opposition demanding nothing short of rollback. However, Mukherjee told them that no decision in this regard could be taken without consulting the Union Cabinet, which had approved allowing 51% FDI in multi-brand retail last week.

'FDI wapas lo, Sansad chalao' (Revoke FDI decision, run Parliament) was the refrain of the opposition inside and outside Parliament, which has virtually not transacted any business since the Winter Session began last Tuesday.

It was trouble from the beginning in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha over the FDI issue, as also a range of demands including separate Telangana and safety of Mullaperiyar dam.

Two key constituents of the UPA - Trinamool Congress and DMK - also joined the opposition to protest against the government's decision to allow 51% FDI in multi-brand retail. Trinamool members were seen in the aisle shouting 'Cancel FDI in retail'.

Both Houses were first adjourned as soon as they assembled at 1100 hours and again after they reassembled at noon as members from BJP, TRS, Left parties and others trooped into the Well.

PTI