New Delhi: Ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the Opposition, saying some parties were unable to accept their defeat in the Bihar election and should not turn Parliament into a “meltdown zone”. He asserted that the session should focus on national progress, not political theatrics.
The Winter Session, which begins today and runs till December 19, will include 15 sittings. The government is set to introduce 13 Bills, while the Opposition plans to raise concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists.
Addressing reporters, Modi said India had demonstrated to the world that “democracy can deliver” through the strong voter turnout in Bihar, especially among women. He urged the Opposition to rise above electoral disappointment, adding that “some parties are not able to digest defeat”, in a veiled reference to the Congress.
The Prime Minister also said young MPs should be given more opportunities to speak during debates. “There are many places to do drama. Those who want to do it can do it there. Parliament is for delivery, not drama,” he remarked. Calling for constructive engagement, he cautioned against allowing “negativity” to overshadow the nation-building agenda.
Modi accused certain Opposition-ruled states of facing such intense anti-incumbency that their leaders were unable to face the public, resulting in their “anger” being expressed in Parliament. He said he was willing to “give tips” to the Opposition on how to function effectively, but urged them not to “sacrifice MPs” due to frustration over electoral losses.
Responding strongly, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that the SIR process and rising air pollution were urgent issues demanding parliamentary scrutiny. “Let us discuss them. What is Parliament for? Raising issues is not drama. Drama is preventing democratic discussions on matters affecting the public,” she said.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, declined to comment on the Prime Minister’s remarks when asked by reporters.
