New Delhi: The opening day of Parliament's winter session was disrupted by a controversy involving Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury, who arrived at the complex with a rescued puppy, resulting in a heated exchange and accusations of "insulting Parliament". The incident occurred on December 1, 2025, and quickly escalated into a political row, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding accountability for what they deemed unparliamentary behavior.
Chowdhury, a member of the Rajya Sabha, explained that she found the stray puppy wandering on the road after a scooter collided with a car. Concerned for its safety, she picked it up and brought it with her to Parliament, intending to have her driver take it to a veterinarian. "I thought it would get hit. So I picked it up, put it in the car, came to Parliament, and sent it back. The car left, and so did the dog," she stated.
The controversy deepened when Chowdhury, questioned about bringing the dog to Parliament, remarked, "Those who bite are inside the Parliament, dogs don't," implying that the real threat came from within the political ranks. This statement drew immediate condemnation from BJP members, who accused her of comparing members of Parliament and parliamentary staff to dogs and insulting the institution. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala asserted that Chowdhury had insulted Parliament and its members, demanding accountability for her actions.
Jagdambika Pal, a BJP MP, criticized Chowdhury's actions as "theatrics" and a violation of parliamentary protocol, arguing that bringing pets into the House was unacceptable. Pal called for action against the Congress MP, stating, "You are not serious about debating issues. You are making a joke of Parliament with such tamasha...She should be taken to task by the Chairman of the House". He further argued that members cannot bring anyone inside Parliament without proper documents.
Chowdhury defended her actions, stating that there was no law against rescuing a stray dog and questioning the objections raised by the ruling party. "This Government does not like animals. Animals don't have a voice. It (dog) was in the car, so what is their problem? It is so small, does it look like it will bite? Those sitting inside Parliament bite, not dogs," she told reporters. She further inquired, "Which law says that I can't rescue a dog?".
The incident occurred against the backdrop of the winter session's commencement, which was already facing disruptions due to opposition protests over alleged electoral irregularities. The Lok Sabha was adjourned shortly after convening, and the Rajya Sabha also saw disruptions, adding to the tumultuous start of the session.
The controversy surrounding Chowdhury's actions has sparked a debate about parliamentary decorum, the rights of animals, and the political climate in India. While some defend her compassion for animals, others criticize her for what they perceive as disrespectful behavior towards the Parliament. The incident highlights the heightened political tensions and the sensitivity surrounding issues of parliamentary privilege and conduct.
