HYDERABAD: The TDP and the CPI(M) lodged a strong protest during the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting of the Assembly on Thursday by accusing the Congress of trying to avoid discussions on major issues like the flood situation.

Voicing dissent at the way the Government had begun efforts to narrow down the number of issues for discussions in the brief session, they left Speaker K.R. Suresh Reddy's chamber even as the meeting was in progress.

The Speaker accepted the Opposition's demand for discussion on the flood situation on Friday after completion of question hour and zero hour.

But, the TDP and the CPI(M) insisted that the Chair set aside all other proceedings and take up the debate immediately on floods after the House was convened. The CPI, the TRS, the BJP and the MIM, however, agreed to the request of the Speaker who wanted the debate on floods concluded on Friday by extending the proceedings by a few hours. The Congress also agreed to extend the session till July 31 to compensate for the loss of time on Thursday.

Speaking to reporters later, TDP member Y. Ramakrishnudu alleged that the adjournment of the House was `pre-planned,' reflecting the ruling party's intention of avoiding a discussion on major issues. The TDP had requested the Speaker to remain neutral and allow discussions on the issues of public importance.

Marxist floor leader Nomula Narasimhaiah alleged that the Government was not prepared to take the Assembly into confidence. CPI floor leader Chada Venkata Reddy wanted the Congress and the TDP not to waste House time.

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