Rajasthan ministers criticise Cong for staying absent during Vande Mataram rendition in Assembly
Jaipur: Rajasthan Urban Development and Local Self-Government Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra, Minister of State for Home Affairs Jawahar Singh Bedham and Assembly Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg on Thursday criticised the Congress for remaining absent from the Assembly during the full rendition of Vande Mataram on the opening day of the monsoon session.
The ministers said the Congress’ decision to stay away from the House reflected its approach towards national sentiment and democratic traditions.
They urged the Opposition to use the Assembly as a platform to raise public issues through facts, debate and constructive suggestions rather than staging protests outside. Kharra said the Congress’ conduct had exposed its mindset towards Vande Mataram and the motherland.
He said while dissent is an essential part of democracy, the Opposition should present its objections inside the House with decorum and facts.
If issues are raised logically, he said, the government is bound to consider them. Kharra alleged that Congress representatives were choosing protests and disruption over legislative debate despite being elected to represent people’s concerns in the Assembly.
Bedham accused Congress of deliberately boycotting the proceedings to avoid participating in the full rendition of Vande Mataram. He alleged that the party was pursuing appeasement politics and attempting to mislead the people of Rajasthan. The minister said the Assembly belongs to all elected representatives and should be used to discuss issues of public interest.
He highlighted the state government’s work in law and order, electricity, water, employment, farmers’ welfare, women’s empowerment and the welfare of weaker sections.
Garg said it was unfortunate that Congress remained absent from the House, creating a controversy over Assembly gate arrangements. He clarified that Gates 1 and 7 were open and legislators could have entered through them.
The Chief Whip said the Opposition should raise its concerns on the floor of the House instead of creating disturbances outside.
He also criticised protesters for reaching the main gate of the Assembly while proceedings were underway, saying such conduct undermines the dignity of constitutional institutions.
Garg further highlighted the tree-protection legislation introduced in the Assembly, describing it as a significant initiative to protect Khejri and other trees and conserve Rajasthan’s traditional Orans or sacred groves.
He said the proposed measures would strengthen the state’s commitment to environmental conservation and its cultural heritage.