New Delhi, Dec 7 (IANS): Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma's reference to Rajya Sabha Member NK Singh having chaired a panel on foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail during the NDA rule kicked up a row in the Upper House, leading to its adjournment till 2.30 pm.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha during the debate on FDI in retail, Sharma said that NK Singh, who was Principal Secretary to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from August 2001-June 2004 under the NDA government, had "chaired a committee on FDI in multi-brand retail".
The Opposition members were immediately on their feet protesting. BJP's M Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley protested while NK Singh got up to make an interjection. However, the Chair disallowed them from interrupting Sharma's speech.
After attempts to quieten the Opposition benches failed, Deputy Chairman PJ Kurien adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.
