Parliament Anyone who opposes the govt is not anti-national, says Opposition leader’s  on #Demonetisation issues,

 

#NewDelhi: The winter session of Parliament witnessed another stormy session on Thursday as former prime minister Manmohan Singh led the Congress charge and denounced demonetisation and called it a “monumental management failure”. Parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar said the government is willing to accommodate the Opposition’s suggestions on demonetisation, but asserted that Parliament should run smoothly and “there should be a meaningful discussion”. Political rivals have intensified attacks against the Modi-led government, demanding a rollback of demonetisation that has forced millions to queue up outside banks and ATMs since November 9. The opposition — which has repeatedly disrupted both Houses — has accused the BJP-led government of creating “financial anarchy” by scrapping the old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 banknotes, a move aimed at curbing black money.

 

Derek O’Brien questions which 92% people are happy with the government’s decision, referring to the online survey conducted by Modi. “Anyone who opposes your policy is not against black money. Anyone who opposes your policy is not anti-national. We are fighting this battle on behalf of people,” the TMC leader goes on to say, appealing the government to find a solution.

Derek O’Brien reads out West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s reaction to the decision of banning old Rs 500/1000 notes: “While I’m against corruption. This is financial chaos, disaster… I want to know from the Prime Minister (Modi) how the poor will manage their daily sustenance. This is Mamata Banerjee reacting to the decision.” “Mamata Banerjee called (demonetisation) this the ‘big black scandal’”. TMC questions the government on why it didn’t print small currency notes, and why is there secrecy about printing notes.”Perhapsbecause you, sir (Jaitley), did not know about the government’s decision (to scrap old notes) either Secrecy cannot be the excuse for putting people in distress.”

 

Samajwadi Party’s Naresh Agrawal’s statement in the Rajya Sabha over Modi’s emotional appeal about his security invokes protests by BJP leaders. “Prime Minister, please stop imposing bans or the public will put a ban on you. I request you to rollback this scheme.”

 

Lok Sabha has been adjourned for the day as protests over demonetisation continue.

 

former PM Manmohan Singh starts speaking in Rajya Sabha. The former prime minister and economist says he wants to highlight problems faced by people due to demonetisation, calling it a “monumental management failure”. “It is important to take note of the grievances of the people… and I say so with all responsibility that we don’t know what will be the final outcome. 50 days may be a short period but it can be torture for the poor. And that’s why 60-65 people have lost their lives. It can weaken and erode people’s confidence in the banking system.” “Sir (PM Modi), in my opinion, this scheme of monetisation will hurt agricultural growth, small industries and the informal sector of the economy. I feel the GDP can decline by 2 percentage point because of demonetisation. The PM must come with some constructive proposal to help people… I urge the Prime Minister to find practical, pragmatic ways to relieve distress placed upon a huge majority of people in India.” “I conclude that it is a case of organised loot and blunder.”

 If PM Modi participates in the debate, the Opposition will resume the debate: Ghulam Nabi Azad. FM arun Jaitley responds, saying Prime Minister will participate in the debate. “Now there will be no ‘Ifs’ and ‘Buts’. Please start the debate.” The House is in agreement,