Renuka Chowdhury Sparks Row After Bringing Pet Dog to Parliament on Winter Session’s First Day

A surprising moment marked the opening day of the Winter Session on Monday when Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury arrived at Parliament with her pet dog, triggering widespread debate over parliamentary conduct and security protocols. The unexpected sight quickly dominated political discussions and social media commentary.

Chowdhury brushed aside criticism, calling the uproar unnecessary. “The government may not like animals inside, but what is the problem? It is such a tiny creature; it will not bite anyone,” she said. Responding to concerns about security and propriety, she quipped, “Those who can bite are already inside Parliament.”

She also dismissed the argument of security protocol violation. “What security concern are we talking about? Give the dog a pass too,” she said, terming the controversy exaggerated.

The BJP strongly objected to the incident. MP Jagdambika Pal accused Chowdhury of “misusing parliamentary privileges,” arguing that no member is permitted to bring pets into the House. He demanded action, stating, “Rules apply to everyone. Parliament is not a place for pets.”

Winter Session Begins With Contentious Start

Monday marked the beginning of the Winter Session of Parliament, which will run until December 19 with 15 sittings scheduled. The government has lined up 13 new bills, including:

• Atomic Energy Bill, 2025

• Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025

• Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill

• Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill

• National Highways (Amendment) Bill

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to introduce the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill and the Health Security & National Security Cess Bill in the Lok Sabha.

Meanwhile, the Opposition intends to raise issues such as the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), economic inequality, the recent Delhi blast, rising pollution, and foreign policy concerns. The government also plans a discussion to mark 150 years of Vande Mataram.