New Delhi:(Page3 News Network)-Opposition sponsored motion on FDI retail has been rejected by Parliament. The motion was defeated today in the Rajya Sabha by 14 votes. 123 members opposed the motion moved by AIADMK leader Dr V Maitreyan while 109 supported it. The Chairman Mohammed Hamid Ansari announced the outcome of the voting. Before the motion was put to vote, Samajwadi Party members walked out. SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav said that they were not satisfied with the reply of the Commerce Minister. BSP members also voted against the motion. Lok Sabha has already rejeted the motion Wednesday.
Replying to the discussion in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma justified 51 Percent FDI in retail and assured the House that the government will not make any kind of compromise in the protection of small and marginal farmers. Accusing the opposition parties of frightening the foreign investors, the minister said that the Congress-led UPA government is committed to take the nation forward.
Mr Sharma said the government has taken several measures to strengthen manufacturing sector. He said the decision has been taken in the supreme national interest.
The Minister asserted that all the stakeholders including chief ministers have been consulted before taking the decision. He also denied opposition allegations that they were not consulted. He said most of the chief ministers replied in response to his communication in regard to FDI.
Outlining the benefits to the farming community and the common man, the minister cited examples of foreign countries, which have allowed FDI in the multi-brand retail sector.
Earlier today, the House took up the discussion by suspending the question hour as several members pleaded with the Chair to allow them to air their views.
