Parliament Budget Session 2026: Rahul Gandhi to Lead Opposition in Budget Debate
The Budget Session of Parliament 2026 continues today with both Houses scheduled to resume discussions on the Union Budget 2026-27. A key highlight is the anticipated participation of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the debate, marking a significant moment in the ongoing parliamentary proceedings.
Heated Exchanges Precede Budget Discussion
This development follows a day of intense debate that finally commenced on Tuesday after several days of heated exchanges between the Treasury and Opposition benches. The discussion was initiated with senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor leading the Opposition's charge, criticizing the Budget as a "squandered opportunity" that fails to address critical national issues.
The session has been marred by controversy, including a protest by suspended MPs. On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi was seen observing a poster held by MPs who were suspended from the Lok Sabha last week for the remainder of the Budget session. These MPs were protesting at the Parliament premises in New Delhi, highlighting the tense atmosphere.
Chaos Over No-Confidence Motion Against Speaker
Further adding to the turmoil, Tuesday witnessed chaos over an Opposition notice for a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Sources close to Birla indicated that he will refrain from occupying the Speaker's chair until the motion is resolved, a decision described as upholding the highest standards of morality.
The motion was initiated by at least 118 Opposition MPs, who cited Birla's disallowance of Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders from speaking during the Motion of Thanks to the President's address, as well as the suspension of eight MPs. This procedural conflict has intensified the political standoff.
Today's Parliamentary Agenda
According to the official list of business published by Parliament authorities, today's agenda includes:
- Continuation of the Union Budget 2026-27 discussion in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
- Presentation of reports by BJP MP Anurag Sharma and JKNC MP Miah Altaf Ahmad on the Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture in the Lok Sabha.
- Similar reports to be presented in the Rajya Sabha by JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha and Kesridevsinh Jhala.
The focus remains on whether Rahul Gandhi's participation will steer the debate towards substantive policy issues or further escalate the political tensions that have characterized this session.
