New Delhi: Parliament’s Monsoon Session ended on Thursday with both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha being adjourned sine die amid repeated disruptions, protests and sharp exchanges between the government and Opposition.
The session, which began on July 20, witnessed frequent disruptions inside the Houses and political confrontations outside Parliament. Despite the turbulent proceedings, several pieces of legislation were taken up and passed during the session.
Rajya Sabha passes Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill
The Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die after Chairman C P Radhakrishnan highlighted the House’s performance during the session. On the final day, the Upper House deviated from its usual pre-lunch schedule, dispensing with Zero Hour and Question Hour to take up the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill.
The legislation was subsequently passed by a voice vote.
The Rajya Sabha had witnessed repeated disruptions over several issues, including police action against students protesting the alleged NEET paper leak and allegations concerning the theft of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
Kharge raises Haldwani ‘purification’ controversy
A major confrontation in the Upper House involved Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge’s allegation that a stage in Haldwani was subjected to a ‘Shuddhikaran’ or purification ritual after he addressed a Congress rally there on August 8.
Kharge said he had spoken about people’s problems without referring to any community or religion and questioned whether such an incident was appropriate in a democracy.
Leader of the House JP Nadda said the BJP did not support such activities and assured the House that the allegation would be investigated. Chairman Radhakrishnan also condemned untouchability and directed the government to investigate the matter and take action if the allegation was found to be true.
Lok Sabha adjourned amid Opposition protests
The Lok Sabha too was adjourned sine die shortly after proceedings began on the final day, following the traditional rendition of Vande Mataram. Opposition MPs raised slogans and demanded discussions and responses from the government on several issues.
Political tensions also spilled outside the chambers, with BJP and Opposition MPs holding counter-protests at the Makar Dwar steps. The BJP protested against Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over the Congress’ position on ongoing protests in Jharkhand, while Opposition MPs sought a statement from the Union Home Minister and responses from the Prime Minister.
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi accused the ruling party of preventing Parliament from functioning. Union minister Manohar Lal Khattar rejected the charge, stressing that Parliament was a forum for discussion and could not function without meaningful debate.
The Monsoon Session thus concluded after weeks of political confrontation, with disruptions remaining a defining feature of proceedings in both Houses.
