Political tensions were apparent from the beginning of the Budget debate, with constant disruptions from the opposition. The Speaker tried to get through Question Hour but could not succeed due to loud protests that prevented formal business from being conducted. Many members went into the well and chanted loud slogans, and, despite many requests for decorum, there was no sign of being able to calm things down. The House was then adjourned without any significant debate.
When members returned, the disruptions resumed almost immediately. The main cause of disruption revolved around disagreements about speakership and procedure. Rahul Gandhi had wanted to raise a completely different issue at first, but the Chair wanted him to speak on the Budget and this caused even further shouting across the benches. The disruption will likely continue to overshadow most of the Government’s legislative agenda for the balance of this Budget discussion session, and this will continue to be the pattern for the current session.
Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks Deepen Budget Debate Disruption
Rahul Gandhi has criticized the direction of economic policy, warning of what he calls the “weaponizing of finance and energy.” He has asserted that decisions about oil are being made under pressure from outside forces.
In reply, Nirmala Sitharaman has aggressively condemned the Congress-led UPA for its weakening of national interests, focused especially on the signing of the WTO Agreement in December 2013 and the Joint Statement made at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit as signs that the Congress had weakened India’s political sovereignty by its behavior through past decisions.
The Exchange has resulted in deepening partisan divisions within both chambers of the legislature. As well, disputes regarding access to speak have continued, with Kiren Rijiju denying that he provided assurances to others, stating that earlier statements made by the Speaker did not contain an unambiguous commitment to allow certain members the right to speak. He has further asked that the Opposition party attempt to maintain the integrity of the House, but demonstrations have continued despite efforts to encourage members to refrain.
Chaos deepens as adjournments multiply
Tensions increased during the chaotic floor exchanges, leading to Giriraj Singh calling Gandhi “abodh balak.” The toothless opposition immediately reacted in outrage over this comment. The Chair attempted several times to put the house back into order. The afternoon saw multiple adjournments before any positive progress on the Union Budget could be accomplished. The day began with an announcement by the Speaker congratulating the Under-19 cricket team for their performance in the tournament. If the Budget debate disruption continues, the remaining legislative calendar could face serious delays, impacting key policy decisions.
Om Birla spoke numerous times about the importance of keeping the house respectful and members conducting themselves in a way that contributes to a healthy and constructive debate. Disruptions, however, continued throughout all sessions. The Assembly will resume at 11 a.m. The Budget debate is still ongoing and contentious.
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