Congress Leader Jairam Ramesh Faces Privilege Committee Over Comments Against Rajya Sabha Chairman

The Rajya Sabha Privileges Committee has taken a "serious view" of allegations against Congress leader Jairam Ramesh for making "disrespectful comments" toward former Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, according to sources who spoke with NDTV on Monday.

This committee meeting was convened just days before Parliament's Winter Session, which is scheduled to begin on December 1.

The controversy originated in April 2023 when BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi filed a formal complaint accusing Ramesh of privilege breach.

Ramesh allegedly remarked that the Chairman should not function as a "cheerleader" for the ruling government and should give equal attention to opposition voices.

The committee meeting included Deputy Chairman Harivansh and several members: Sudhanshu Trivedi, Deepak Prakash, Kartikeya Sharma, GK Vasan, and Surendra Nagar.

Sources report that the senior Congress leader presented his defense before the committee, stating he had no intention to disrespect the Chair. He reportedly emphasized that he maintains full respect for the parliamentary position.

The Committee is currently evaluating all evidence, including Ramesh's explanation, while considering broader questions of parliamentary conduct before determining their next course of action.

Comprising 10 members from various political parties, the Rajya Sabha Privileges Committee examines all questions of privilege referred by either the House or the Chairman.

The Committee's responsibility includes determining whether a breach of privilege has occurred in each case. If they find a breach, they assess its nature and the surrounding circumstances before making appropriate recommendations.