New Delhi: A controversy erupted in Parliament on Monday, December 1, 2025, after Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury brought a rescued stray puppy into the Parliament complex. The incident sparked heated debate, drawing criticism from BJP members and leading to a "Bhow-Bhow" retort from Chowdhury when questioned about a potential privilege motion against her.
According to Chowdhury, she found the puppy wandering near an accident site involving a scooter and a car. Concerned for its safety, she picked it up and brought it to Parliament before sending it home.
The move, however, was not well-received by some members of the BJP, who raised concerns about security and adherence to parliamentary rules. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal accused Chowdhury of staging "drama" and violating protocol by bringing the dog into Parliament without proper documentation. He insisted that bringing any animal or person without proper documentation was a violation of rules. He demanded action be taken against the Congress MP, emphasizing the need to uphold the sanctity and decorum of Parliament. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla echoed these concerns, alleging that Chowdhury's actions insulted MPs and staff.
Chowdhury, however, defended her actions, stating that her intention was to protect the animal. When questioned by the media about the controversy and reports of a potential privilege motion against her, Chowdhury responded with "Bhow, bhow...aur kya bolun? (What else should I say)". She further added, "We will see when it (the privilege motion) is brought. I will give a 'munhtod' (befitting) reply". She also quipped, "The real ones who bite are sitting in Parliament. They run the government".
The "Bhow-Bhow" remark quickly went viral, triggering a flurry of reactions on social media, including memes and remixes. BJP leaders, however, condemned Chowdhury's response. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on the Congress party, accusing them of attempting to undermine the dignity of Parliament. He stated that Chowdhury's actions, from bringing the dog to Parliament to her subsequent remarks, indicated a deliberate campaign by the Congress to tarnish the image of the institution. He questioned whether the Congress party was becoming the "Muslim League Maowadi Congress".
Trivedi also criticized other Congress leaders for allegedly making controversial remarks against Hindu deities, citing instances involving the Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh and Telangana. He accused the Congress party of harboring an "Urban Naxal mindset" and systematically insulting Hindu deities.
The incident has further intensified the already strained relations between the ruling party and the opposition during the Winter Session of Parliament. While the BJP has called for strict action against Chowdhury, opposition leaders have defended her actions, with some suggesting that the issue is being blown out of proportion. Rahul Gandhi, for instance, remarked that pets are not allowed, but "biting" individuals are inside the House.
The controversy has raised questions about parliamentary decorum, security protocols, and the appropriateness of bringing animals into the Parliament complex. It remains to be seen whether the Rajya Sabha will initiate a privilege motion against Chowdhury and what impact this incident will have on the ongoing Winter Session.
