Tensions Rise in Rajasthan Assembly Over Crop Damage Due to Heavy Rains
The Rajasthan Assembly saw a heated debate on Thursday as lawmakers voiced serious concerns about widespread crop damage caused by heavy rains. The opposition Congress MLAs turned the session into a protest zone, both inside and outside the House, demanding quick action for farmers.
Before the Assembly started, Congress Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully made a dramatic point by riding a tractor to the Assembly’s western gate. He wanted to highlight farmers’ struggles, but security personnel stopped him, leading to loud arguments.
Later, Jully and other Congress MLAs marched into the Assembly on foot, carrying smashed crop samples and banners. They loudly accused the government of ignoring farmers’ troubles and raising slogans to grab attention.
Inside the House, the chaos continued during the Zero Hour. Congress MLAs Amit Chachan, Narendra Budania, and Jully claimed that lakhs of acres of crops had been destroyed by the rains. Narendra Budania criticized the government, saying, “They are flying in helicopters but don’t care about farmers. They should announce immediate compensation!”
The situation worsened when Disaster Relief Minister Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena promised help for farmers affected by crop damage. However, Congress MLA Ashok Chandna tried to speak without permission, and a heated argument erupted between ruling BJP members and Congress leaders. The protest caused the Speaker to adjourn the session till 2 p.m. at 12.34 p.m.
Meanwhile, a question from Tikam Ram Jully about the Sariska Tiger Reserve’s land changes and mining approvals was put on hold, since the matter is currently in the Supreme Court.
The tractor arrival at the Assembly entrance was a symbolic protest highlighting farmers’ distress. Members of the opposition staged a sit-in outside, criticizing the government’s response to the crisis.
Jully emphasized, “We are standing up for the people. Farmers have lost their crops and property because of heavy rains. The government must listen to us. We won’t stop until justice is served.”
Despite the protests, the Assembly plans to resume work soon and is expected to pass important bills, including the Rajasthan Goods and Services Tax Second Amendment Bill.
Jully stated outside the Assembly, “Farmers have suffered huge losses across the state. The government hasn’t provided the relief they need. We will keep protesting until they get justice.”
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
