Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury Defies Criticism Over Bringing Dog to Parliament - Political Controversy Escalates

Congress MP and former Union Minister Renuka Chowdhury, who made headlines for bringing a dog to Parliament and then criticizing fellow lawmakers, remained defiant this morning and stated she has not violated any rules and is unconcerned about potential actions against her.

"If they want to bring a motion against me for violation of special rights, let them do so; it doesn't matter to me. Former Prime Minister (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee also brought a bullock cart to Parliament. Dogs hold great importance in Hinduism. There is no rule that I have violated. It doesn't matter to me," the Rajya Sabha MP told media when questioned about BJP leaders' warnings of bringing a motion against her for her 'dog' incident. She also 'barked' when asked about BJP leaders' criticism and the possibility of a privilege motion against her.

#Watch | Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury reacts over reports that the Rajya Sabha is considering initiating a privilege motion against her over her recent remarks involving dogs, says, "I will see when it will be brought, I will give a befitting reply"

Responding to the video of Chowdhury 'barking', BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said, "When you lose '95 elections', this is what happens to your mental state... Congress leader justifies calling Congress MPs Dogs. Congress leader Renuka Chowdhary says 'Bhau Bhau'. Get well soon, Rahul Gandhi... Get well soon, Congress."

The 71-year-old leader sparked controversy when she brought a dog to Parliament's premises. Sources indicate security personnel attempted to prevent her from taking the dog inside, but she insisted on passing through. The dog was returned in the MP's car shortly afterward, but its brief presence on the premises initiated discussions about protocol.

The incident might have faded away, but Chowdhury made comments that intensified the situation. She stated there is no law preventing a dog's entry on Parliament premises. "What protocol? Is there a law? On my way to Parliament, I spotted the puppy near an accident site. I was afraid that it could be run over, so I picked it up and brought it here. Then I sent it back home," she explained to reporters.

She further added, "Those who bite are sitting inside Parliament and running the government. Is there no problem with that? If I take care of an animal, it becomes a topic of discussion."

The BJP criticized Chowdhury, claiming she had insulted Parliament and her fellow Parliamentarians. "Renuka Chaudhary has insulted Parliament and MPs. She brings a dog to Parliament, and when asked about it, she says that those who bite are inside. That means the Parliament, Parliamentary staff, and the MPs are dogs in her opinion," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala stated. He also suggested Chowdhury's actions validated the Prime Minister's remark that Congress prefers drama over debate in Parliament.

Chowdhury, however, received support from party colleague and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. When questioned by media about the dog controversy, he responded, "These are the things that India is discussing these days. Dog is the main topic today, I believe. What did the poor dog do? Are they not allowed here?"