Ambedkar Row Intensifies: BJP MP Pratap Sarangi Injured, Accuses Rahul Gandhi Of 'Pushing' Him

Amid a confrontation between Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the Parliament premises over the Ambedkar row, BJP MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi reportedly sustained minor head injuries.

Sarangi claimed that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pushed an MP, who then fell on him, causing his injuries.

Sources suggest that the BJP intends to file a police complaint over the altercation, which occurred when the protesting INDIA bloc and BJP MPs came face to face near Makar Dwar.

Following the incident, a BJP MP confronted Rahul Gandhi, saying, "Have you no shame? Look what you've done. You've pushed him." Rahul Gandhi responded, "He pushed me." This led BJP leaders to accuse him of "gundagardi karte ho" (acting like a goon).

Meanwhile, Sarangi, who was injured, was taken to RML Hospital, where several top ministers and political leaders, including Piyush Goyal and Prahlad Joshi, visited him.

What Rahul Gandhi Said

In response to the allegations, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi stated, "BJP MP pushed me and threatened me while I was trying to enter Parliament. They were stopping me."

He added, "Dhakka mukki se kuch hota nahi hain" (Nothing happens with pushing and shoving).

Gandhi also claimed that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was pushed as well. "This might be on your camera. I was trying to go inside through the Parliament entrance, but BJP MPs were trying to stop me, push me, and threaten me. This has happened... Yes, this has happened (Mallikarjun Kharge being pushed). But we do not get affected by jostling. This is the entrance, and we have the right to go in. BJP MPs were trying to stop us from going in," Gandhi told reporters.

He emphasised that the main issue was the BJP attacking the Constitution and insulting the legacy of Ambedkar.

What Happens Next?

Parliamentary privilege in India grants several rights outlined in the Constitution, including freedom of speech within Parliament, immunity from legal proceedings for anything said or voted in Parliament, and protection for publishing official parliamentary reports.

Courts cannot question parliamentary proceedings over procedural issues, nor can they intervene in Parliament's conduct.

Additionally, members are protected from civil or criminal action for reporting parliamentary proceedings unless done with malicious intent. Obstructing or assaulting a member while performing their duties is considered a breach of privilege and contempt of the House.

If found guilty, Rahul Gandhi could lose his membership in Parliament, though the Speaker will make the final decision.