New Delhi, February 3, 2026 – The Rajya Sabha witnessed a heated confrontation on Monday as Opposition parties launched a sharp attack on the government over escalating communal polarisation, unemployment, and alleged irregularities in governance. This clash unfolded during the discussions on the Motion of Thanks to President Droupadi Murmu's address, setting the stage for a contentious parliamentary session.
Opposition's Stinging Critique
Led by senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, along with TMC's Sagarika Ghose, AAP's Sanjay Singh, and DMK's Tiruchi Siva, the Opposition accused the government of fostering divisions among communities. Digvijaya Singh questioned the inclusivity of the government's 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' motto, asserting that minorities such as Muslims, Dalits, Adivasis, and Christians are being marginalised. He highlighted instances of homes being bulldozed based on religion, challenging the administration's commitment to social justice.
Specific Allegations Raised
Sagarika Ghose of the TMC delivered a scathing critique, accusing the government of denying present realities. She pointed to grievances from voters in West Bengal's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, irregularities flagged by the Comptroller and Auditor General, and environmental pollution as key failures. Ghose also condemned what she described as governmental tyranny, citing actions against comedians as evidence of suppressing dissent.
Sanjay Singh from the AAP targeted the Centre and Uttar Pradesh government over the alleged demolition of Ahilyabai Holkar's statue in Varanasi, accusing them of damaging the historic ghats along the Ganga. He warned of public anger, suggesting that such actions would have sparked riots under different administrations.
NDA's Robust Defense
In response, the Treasury benches vigorously defended the government's 12-year tenure, emphasising significant achievements in poverty reduction. Nominated MP and Kerala BJP vice-president C Sadanandan Master, in his maiden speech, praised President Murmu's address for outlining a clear vision towards Viksit Bharat, inclusive growth, and national security. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's perseverance for India's elevated global standing, stating that the nation has transitioned from fragile promises to solid delivery.
Poverty Alleviation Claims
BJP's Medha Kulkarni and JD(U)'s Sanjay Jha echoed these sentiments, with Jha highlighting that 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty, joining the new middle class. He argued that this demographic is driving economic growth, helping offset global slowdowns. Jha also dismissed Opposition concerns over the SIR issue, claiming that post-exercise elections in Bihar revealed no instances of disenfranchised voters.
The debate underscored deep political divides, with the Opposition focusing on social discord and governance flaws, while the NDA showcased economic progress and poverty eradication as hallmarks of its rule. As parliamentary sessions continue, these issues are likely to remain at the forefront of national discourse.
