Opposition MPs protest Shah's absence in Rajya Sabha; Rijiju says Chair gave no direction

Rajya Sabha was adjourned for about half an hour Friday as Opposition MPs protested Home Minister Amit Shah’s absence, demanding he respond on police action against NEET paper-leak protesters. Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan had asked Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to echo Opposition sentiments and consider the request for Shah’s presence. Rijiju said the Chair gave no direction, accused Mallikarjun Kharge of misleading the House, and noted ministers attend per their agenda. The Opposition has demanded Shah’s statement on July 20 police action against students marching to Parliament. Amid sloganeering, Lok Sabha passed an MSME bill and adjourned until Monday.