'Unacceptable': Kharge writes to Dhankhar over 'intrusion' into his chamber
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has written a letter to Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, expressing his displeasure over the unauthorized entry of officials from the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and Tata Projects into his Parliament chamber. In the letter dated October 3, Kharge described this incident as an "extraordinary development" and a "blatant violation" of his privileges as both a Member of Parliament (MP) and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha.
Kharge demands accountability for unauthorized entry
Kharge has demanded an explanation for the unauthorized entry into his Parliament chamber on September 28. He described the incident as "highly disrespectful and completely unacceptable," insisting on knowing under whose authority and instructions they entered without permission. "This may be taken seriously," he added in his letter to Dhankhar.
Kharge seeks assurance against future incidents
The Congress leader has expressed hope that measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents from recurring. He stated, "If at all such entry is required, my permission must be sought and...take place with somebody from my office present." The CISF has yet to issue a statement on the matter. However, sources familiar with the situation revealed that CISF personnel were present with other agencies as part of protocol during renovation or construction work within Parliament, the Hindustan Times reported.
CISF's role in Parliament maintenance work clarified
An official aware of the matter clarified that the CISF's role was purely for security during maintenance work at different offices within Parliament. "The keys of the offices are not with the CISF. The force was informed about the maintenance work, so they accompanied officials to ensure there is no wrongdoing," said an official. No response has been received from either CPWD or Tata Project officials regarding this incident.
