Renuka Chowdhury sparks row by bringing pet dog to Parliament, says ‘Harmless animal, real threat is inside’
PTC Web Desk: A surprising incident marked the opening day of the Winter Session of Parliament on Monday when Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury arrived at the premises accompanied by her pet dog, triggering immediate debate over propriety and security within the high-security complex. The unusual sight quickly became the most discussed moment of the day.
Responding to questions from reporters, Renuka Chowdhury brushed aside objections, stating that the dog posed no threat. “It is a tiny, harmless creature. The government may object to animals entering, but how is this a problem? It will not bite anyone,” she remarked. Adding a pointed jibe, she said the real concern should not be the dog but “some people inside Parliament” who are more likely to bite.
When asked about possible security violations, she downplayed the issue further. “What security concern? Give the dog a pass too. What else is there to say?” she said, maintaining that no rules were being compromised.
The BJP swiftly condemned the act. Party MP Jagdambika Pal criticised the move as an inappropriate use of parliamentary privilege and demanded action. “MPs may enjoy certain privileges, but these do not include the authority to bring pets into the House. Rules must be respected, and accountability ensured,” he said.
Winter session begins
The incident unfolded on the first day of the Winter Session, which runs until December 19 and includes 15 sittings spread over 19 days. The government has lined up 13 new Bills for introduction.
- With inputs from agencies