New Delhi: Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday termed the Monsoon Session of Parliament “fruitful and successful” for the government and the country, but “unsuccessful and damaging” for the opposition, which frequently disrupted proceedings.
After both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned sine die, Rijiju said the government managed to complete all its legislative business, achieving a “100 per cent success rate.” He noted that the treasury benches were compelled to pass bills amid opposition uproar, as repeated appeals for discussion were ignored.
“The government has a duty to the people and will continue to act in the national interest,” he asserted, adding that opposition protests could not derail governance.
Taking a dig at the opposition, particularly the Congress, Rijiju claimed that while some of their leaders and whips informally reached understandings with the government during the session, they ultimately failed to follow through in Parliament. “Perhaps they were under pressure,” he remarked, hinting at the party leadership’s intent to obstruct proceedings.
He further criticized the Congress, saying, “How will new MPs learn if their leader himself does not? Participation in debates is essential to grow as a parliamentarian.”
The Monsoon Session, which began on July 21, saw repeated adjournments over the opposition’s demand for a debate on the Special Intensive Review of electoral rolls in Bihar. The government rejected the demand, maintaining that the Election Commission’s administrative work cannot be discussed in Parliament. The only issue taken up without disruption was a two-day debate on Operation Sindoor in both Houses.
“Protest and disagreement are democratic rights,” Rijiju said, “but obstructing Parliament and preventing the government from working is anti-democratic.”
With the opposition unrelenting, the government pushed ahead with its legislative agenda—introducing 14 bills in the Lok Sabha and securing passage of 12, while the Rajya Sabha cleared 15 bills.
Rijiju also criticized opposition protests against three bills introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday. The bills propose compulsory removal of the prime minister, chief ministers, and ministers from office if they remain in custody for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges.
Calling the legislation “revolutionary,” Rijiju said, “While some parties frame laws to protect themselves, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shown leadership by including even his own office under this proposed law.”
