Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 12: A heated protest erupted in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday as opposition members, primarily from the Congress and DMK, raised concerns over a renewable energy project near the India-Pakistan border. Accusing the government of compromising national security, the opposition staged a walkout after claiming they received no satisfactory response.
During Question Hour, Congress MP Manish Tewari highlighted that the proposed mixed renewable energy project extends up to one kilometer from the International Border (IB). He pointed out that, as per security protocols, major infrastructure projects should be located at least 10 kilometers away from the border. Questioning whether the government had granted any exemptions, he emphasized that national security and energy security must go hand in hand.
Responding to the concerns, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi asserted that all necessary approvals are obtained from the central and state governments, along with relevant security agencies, before granting project clearances. He reiterated the government's commitment to expanding renewable energy production in India while adhering to required regulations.
Unsatisfied with the response, Congress members stormed the Well of the House, raising slogans on national security. Along with DMK members, they subsequently walked out in protest.
Addressing reporters outside Parliament, Manish Tewari criticized the government’s stance, stating, “A large renewable energy project is being set up in Khavda, just one kilometer from the Pakistan border. As per national security guidelines, no project should be within 10 kilometers. When we raised this in Parliament, we received no clear answer, so we boycotted the session.”
Congress Deputy Leader in Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, went a step further, questioning whether the Adani Group was being given preferential treatment over national security concerns. He accused the government of ignoring warnings from the armed forces to benefit a private conglomerate.
“The party that claims to stand for national security has compromised it to favor Narendra Modi’s close allies. No clear response has been given, and we demand accountability,” Gogoi said.
The Congress had recently launched a scathing attack on the Centre, alleging that border security rules were relaxed to allow a business group to set up an energy park, thereby putting national security at risk for corporate gains.