Rahul Gandhi Claims Fishermen Delegation Blocked From Meeting in Parliament

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that a fishermen delegation was stopped from meeting him in Parliament. Addressing the press, he noted ongoing issues related to Sri Lankan fishermen. Gandhi emphasized the importance of meeting all delegations, including those from Child Welfare and Right to Food Campaign.

Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi alleged on Thursday that a delegation of fishermen was prevented from meeting him in Parliament. Addressing reporters, Gandhi stated that the fishermen sought to discuss issues concerning Sri Lanka.

"It is our right to meet anyone, but they are not allowing it. I had previously spoken about farmers, and the Speaker assured the House that they were not being blocked. Yet, they have been stopped again. This includes issues related to Sri Lankan farmers and other delegations from Child Welfare." He added that meeting delegations in the Lok Sabha Opposition Chamber simplifies the process for him.

Congress posted on X, "LoP Rahul Gandhi meets delegations from the Right to Food Campaign and fishermen from across India, listening to their concerns and standing up for their rights!" Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi noted Gandhi's continued 'Bharat Jodo' resolve.

Gogoi stated, "A student delegation has yet to enter Parliament to meet the LoP, but Rahul Gandhi is committed to meeting them as part of his 'Bharat Jodo' mission." Earlier, members of the Safai Karamchari Andolan and those involved in manual scavenging also met Gandhi.

"Members of the Safai Karamchari Andolan met the Leader of Opposition to discuss manual scavenging. Despite government claims of eradicating the practice, government data reveals that 377 people have died cleaning tanks in the last five years. Attention is needed on their safety," Congress posted on X. Additionally, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at tackling issues related to Waqf Board powers and property encroachments, was introduced by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

(With inputs from agencies.)