Allegations of horse-trading in Karnataka stall Lok Sabha

Kumaraswamy budget Bhanu Karnataka Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy with members of the ruling coalition after the presentation of the state budget | Bhanu Prakash Chandra

The proceedings of the Lok Sabha were adjourned for nearly 50 minutes on Monday when opposition members trooped into the well, raising slogans on alleged horse-trading in Karnataka and other issues.

As soon as the Question Hour was taken up, K.C. Venugopal (Congress) alleged that BJP has started "operation lotus" in Karnataka and was trying to bribe MLAs to switch sides.

He alleged that names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah were taken during attempts to bribe a JD(S) MLA. BJP members shouted back at Venugopal, refuting his allegations.

Soon, Congress members rushed to the well, raising slogans and holding placards denouncing "horse-trading". They were joined by TDP MPs.

Members from the Trinamool Congress joined other opposition members in the well and shouted slogans. But the issue on which they were protesting could not be heard in the din.

Around 11.10am, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan adjourned the House till noon.