Amit Shah ready for Parliament debate on Delhi crackdown, with a condition

Government's Offer Amid Logjam

The Union government has signalled a possible end to the parliamentary deadlock over the Delhi Police crackdown on student protesters. Home Minister Amit Shah is reportedly willing to speak on the issue, but the Centre has attached a condition to the offer.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju conveyed the government's stance on Monday, stating that Shah is prepared to address questions and concerns raised by lawmakers. However, Rijiju added that the opposition must agree to a specific format for the discussion.

This development comes as the monsoon session approaches its final days, with both Houses having witnessed repeated adjournments over the past week.

The Sticking Point

The condition set by the government pertains to the structure of the debate. Sources indicate that the Centre prefers a short-duration discussion under a specific rule, which would allow for a reply from the Home Minister without a formal vote or a detailed, clause-by-clause examination.

The opposition, however, has been pushing for a more comprehensive debate, including a statement from the Home Minister and a full-fledged discussion on the police action at Jamia Millia Islamia and other locations. Leaders from several parties have called the crackdown an assault on democratic rights.

The standoff has effectively stalled legislative business, including several bills that were slated for passage before the session concludes.

Opposition's Response

Opposition MPs have reacted cautiously to the government's offer. While some have welcomed the prospect of a statement from Amit Shah, others have questioned the condition, calling it an attempt to limit scrutiny.

"The Home Minister cannot choose the terms of accountability," said a senior opposition leader on condition of anonymity. He added that the government's approach has been marked by reluctance, which has only deepened the crisis of trust.

Earlier, the opposition had stalled proceedings over the same issue, demanding that the government agree to a structured discussion with a clear timeline.

Background of the Crackdown

The police action against students, which took place during protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, drew widespread criticism. Several students and journalists were injured, and many were detained.

Amid the uproar, the government has maintained that the police acted within the law to control an unlawful assembly. Officials have not yet confirmed any details of an internal inquiry into the conduct of the police.

The demand for a parliamentary discussion has grown louder, with multiple parties across the spectrum urging the government to break its silence.

What Happens Next

With the session drawing to a close, the government's offer could either pave the way for a resolution or further entrench the deadlock. The opposition is expected to respond formally to Rijiju's proposal on Tuesday.

If an agreement is reached, Amit Shah is likely to make a statement in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, followed by a brief discussion. The coming hours will determine whether the logjam breaks or the session ends without substantive business.