Opposition unites to take on PM Narendra Modi in Parliament over demonetisation

As a belligerent Prime Minister sought to rally public support for the contentious measure, hailed and reviled by his supporters and opponents, the demonetisation exercise saw many of his political rivals come together on the issue, with some even alleging BJP leaders had prior information about the impending decision.

The November 8 decision of the Modi government, however, brought a fractured opposition together on the issue barely a couple of days ahead of Parliament’s winter session with representatives of seven parties—Congress, TMC, JD(U), RJD, CPI, CPI(M) and YSR (Congress)--discussing the matter.

The SP, BSP and AAP, which have strongly criticised the government on the demonetisation issue gave the meeting a miss, besides DMK, AIADMK and NCP.

Mamata Banerjee’s TMC has even decided to meet President Pranab Mukherjee on November 16, the day Parliament session starts, to highlight the “crisis” situation.

It was, however, not clear if other parties will join TMC in the delegation to President. The leaders of these parties are likely to meet again tomorrow when representatives from Mayawati’s BSP and some others are expected to be present, according to CPI national secretary D Raja.

#WATCH Congress, TMC, RJD, JD(U),JMM, CPI, CPI(M) and other opposition parties hold meeting ahead of Parliament winter session pic.twitter.com/RF11sl2jzV

— ANI (@ANI_news) November 14, 2016

#InsideVisuals Congress, TMC, RJD, JD(U),JMM, CPI, CPI(M) and other opposition parties hold meeting ahead of Parliament winter session pic.twitter.com/icDe6hZ2kr

— ANI (@ANI_news) November 14, 2016

The Congress accused the Modi government of unleashing “economic anarchy” and “tax terrorism” in the country and called for unity among opposition parties.

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“Whatever may be the differences, political parties should not shy away from voicing the concern of the people so as to address the grievances,” party’s chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala said soon after the meeting of the opposition parties.

Watch video | Poor are having a sound sleep, the corrupt are upset: PM Modi

With millions grappling with demonetisation blues, a combative Narendra Modi on Monday defended the action as one which has brought “sound sleep” to the poor and unnerved the corrupt even as his rivals made a common cause against him, terming his remarks as “insult” to people.