Date:17/12/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/12/17/stories/2004121714201100.htm

National

Heated exchanges over `interview' by naxal leader

By Our Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI, DEC. 16. The Rajya Sabha was today adjourned for more than an hour following heated exchanges and disruptions over procedural wranglings over an interview reportedly given by a naxalite leader to a television channel.

As soon as the Home Minister, Shivraj Patil, wrapped up his reply to the discussion on internal security, the Leader of the Opposition, Jaswant Singh, sought a clarification on a reported interview by the naxalite leader.

Some of the points were read out by Mr. Singh who wanted the Home Minister to respond.

Mr. Patil said he would have no hesitation in replying had the Leader of the Opposition raised the issue after giving notice.

He said the rule was that after the reply of the Minister no questions should be asked. Some of the Opposition members contested this.