Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a pointed remark directed at Congress MP Mallikarjun Kharge during the Rajya Sabha session on Wednesday, suggesting that the senior leader could continue raising slogans while sitting down, considering his age. This comment came as the Opposition members were shouting slogans during the Prime Minister's reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President's address.
PM Modi's Controversial Statement in Parliament
While addressing the Upper House, PM Modi stated, "Meri ek prarthana hai, adarniye Kharge ji ki umar dekhte huye, wo baith kar bhi naare bol sakte hain toh accha hoga, taaki unko kasht na ho. Peeche naujawan bahot log hain, toh Kharge ji ko baithke bhi naare bolne ki anumati de dijiye". This translates to: "I have one request. Considering Kharge ji's age, it would be better if he could raise slogans while seated, so that he does not face any discomfort. There are many young people standing behind him, so please allow Kharge ji to chant slogans even while sitting."
Immediate Fallout and Opposition Reaction
The remark quickly escalated tensions in the Rajya Sabha. Opposition members, who had been vocal during the Prime Minister's speech, interpreted the comment as a taunt and an age-related jibe. In response, they staged a walkout from the House, disrupting the proceedings during PM Modi's reply to the Motion of Thanks.
This incident highlights the ongoing political friction between the ruling party and the Opposition in Parliament. The Motion of Thanks debate, which follows the President's address, is a key parliamentary event where government policies are discussed and critiqued. The walkout underscores the deep divisions and heated exchanges that have become characteristic of recent parliamentary sessions.
Context and Broader Implications
Mallikarjun Kharge, a veteran Congress leader, is one of the senior-most members of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha. His role often involves leading protests and raising issues during parliamentary debates. PM Modi's suggestion, while framed as concern for Kharge's comfort, has been viewed by many as a strategic move to deflect from the sloganeering and focus attention on the Opposition's conduct.
The episode raises questions about parliamentary decorum and the tone of political discourse in India. As the country navigates complex legislative agendas, such exchanges between leaders can impact the efficiency and collaborative spirit of parliamentary work. The walkout also signals the Opposition's readiness to use dramatic gestures to protest perceived disrespect or procedural issues.
This development comes amid a backdrop of intense political competition, with both sides positioning themselves ahead of upcoming electoral challenges. The Rajya Sabha, as a forum for detailed deliberation, often becomes a battleground for such political skirmishes, reflecting broader national debates.
