NEW DELHI, July 19 -- After protests by the opposition, the Government on Sunday defended the invitation extended to rebel TMC MPs, who had joined little-known NCPI, to an all-party meet, saying they cannot be ignored as they have petitioned the Lok Sabha Speaker for recognition and separate seats.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also said that the people of the country want smooth functioning of Parliament and "not any turmoil" in the House, while urging all parties to "give their positive support to bills".
He was speaking after the all-party meeting convened ahead of the Monsoon session.
As many as 20 out of 28 TMC MPs have revolted against the party leadership following its defeat in assembly elections in West Bengal and ...