Sat Dec 21 03:43:23 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Police Take Over Probe into Parliament Scuffle Between BJP, Congress MPs

**New Delhi:** The Delhi Police Crime Branch has taken over the investigation into a violent clash outside Parliament between BJP and Congress MPs. The incident, which left at least two BJP MPs injured, stemmed from simultaneous protests by both parties.

BJP MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi, who was hospitalized with a forehead injury, alleges that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi instigated the altercation by pushing another MP, causing a chain reaction that resulted in Sarangi’s fall. An FIR has been filed against Gandhi based on a complaint by BJP leader Hemang Joshi.

The Congress, however, counters these claims, asserting that BJP MPs pushed party president Mallikarjun Kharge, injuring his knee. Mr. Kharge wrote to the Lok Sabha Speaker detailing the alleged assault. Rahul Gandhi also claims he was blocked and threatened by BJP MPs wielding sticks while attempting to enter Parliament. Nagaland BJP MP Phangnon Konyak added another layer to the accusations, alleging that Rahul Gandhi intimidated her by shouting and standing too close.

Both parties lodged complaints against each other, leading to the Crime Branch investigation. Delegations from both the BJP and Congress visited police offices to formally register their complaints and provide statements. The incident occurred amidst larger protests: the INDIA bloc protesting remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and the BJP staging their own counter-protest. The investigation is expected to determine culpability for the violence and injuries sustained by MPs from both sides.

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