Congress Member of Parliament Renuka Chowdhury has issued a sharp response amid reports that a privilege motion is being considered against her in the Rajya Sabha. The controversy stems from her act of bringing a stray puppy onto the Parliament premises earlier this week.
Chowdhury's Defiant Stance Outside Parliament
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Chowdhury addressed the potential privilege motion with defiance. She stated she would provide a "befitting reply" when the matter is formally brought up. Her comments came as the Winter Session of Parliament, which began on 1 December, continues its proceedings.
In her remarks, the MP pivoted to highlight what she sees as more pressing national issues. "People are dying because of pollution, and no one is worried about it," she said. She further pointed to tragedies among Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and concerns over labour laws. "But Renuka Chowdhury's dog has rattled everyone. What can I say now? I will continue to take care of animals," she asserted.
How the Parliament Puppy Incident Unfolded
The row began on Monday when Chowdhury brought a dog to Parliament. She explained that she rescued the puppy en route after witnessing a scooter-car collision. Seeing the animal wandering near the street and fearing it would be hurt, she placed it in her car for safety.
"This little puppy was wandering on the road. I thought it would get hit by the wheel. So I picked it up, put it in the car, came to Parliament, and sent it back," Chowdhury told ANI. She emphasized that the dog remained in the vehicle and left when her car departed, questioning the basis for the extensive discussion.
Political Reactions and Escalating Row
The incident did not go unnoticed by other parliamentarians. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal raised concerns about the dog's presence and demanded action against Chowdhury. This triggered the current discussion around a possible privilege motion for a breach of parliamentary conduct.
In her defense, the Congress MP argued that the animal was small, harmless, and non-aggressive. "The government doesn’t like animals. What’s the harm if a small, harmless animal comes inside?" she questioned. The controversy has sparked a wider debate, overshadowing other parliamentary business listed by the Centre, including the introduction of 10 new bills and a discussion on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.
As the session progresses, the focus remains split between legislative work and this unusual dispute, with Chowdhury standing firm on her actions and preparing her formal response.
