Extend Par session to pass quota bill: BSP

With the Rajya Sabha failing to take up the contentious bill providing for quota in promotion for SCs and STs, the Bahujan Samaj Party on Thursday demanded extending the ongoing session of Parliament and asked the Centre to find a ;middle path' in coal block issue to end disruptions caused by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

"If the central government really wants the bill to be passed, it should ensure smooth functioning of the House. It should find a middle path on the coal issue to end the disruptions caused by the BJP and its allies as coal scam too is no less important," BSP chief Mayawati said in a statement.

She also demanded extending the ongoing Monsoon Session by 10 to 12 days so that the bill could be passed. Friday is the last day of the session.

Accusing the Centre of playing a 'double game', she said while the bill has been introduced, it is not being passed to keep those against it in good humour.

Mayawati, whose party has been demanding reservation in promotion, also referred to the opposition by the Samajwadi Party.

"The Centre should find a way for peaceful conduct of business in the Rajya Sabha by controlling people who are opposed to the measure," she said.

The Constitution Amendment Bill, which was introduced in the House yesterday amid commotion and scuffle between members of SP and BSP in the House, could not be taken up for passage even as Minister of State for Personnel V Narayanasamy rose to move it.

Members of the SP and the Shiv Sena trooped into the Well, shouting slogans against the proposed legislation.