The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Tuesday amid noisy scenes and arguments between the opposition and treasury benches over the detention of civil society activist Anna Hazare and his associates.

The issue was raised by Leader of Opposition Arun Jaitley as soon as the house assembled. He said the detention of the 74-year-old Hazare was a "murder of democracy", triggering protests from the Congress.

Nothing was audible as arguments and counter-arguments continued.

Chairman Hamid Ansari said Jaitley should be allowed to make the statement.

Jaitley then asked: "Will not the government allow the house to function?"

The unrest continued and the chairman adjourned the Rajya Sabha till 12 noon.