Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Condemns Opposition Disruptions During President's Parliament Address
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has launched a scathing criticism against opposition parties for creating significant disturbances during President Droupadi Murmu's address at the commencement of the Budget session of Parliament. The minister asserted that such behavior has brought shame to the nation and represents conduct that the country will find difficult to forgive.
Parliamentary Proceedings Marred by Opposition Protests
The Budget Session of Parliament began on Wednesday with President Droupadi Murmu delivering her address to a joint sitting of both Houses. However, the proceedings were disrupted by opposition members who staged protests during the presidential speech. Following the address, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned for the day, cutting short the parliamentary activities.
"What the Opposition did when the President was addressing both Houses of Parliament makes the country ashamed. The country will never forgive Congress and its allies," Rijiju stated emphatically during his remarks to the media.
Specific Instances of Disruption During Historical Tributes
The minister highlighted particularly troubling moments during the presidential address when opposition members created disturbances. "Can a responsible MP behave like this? When the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram was being mentioned, and tribute was being paid to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, the entire Opposition started creating a ruckus. When the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was mentioned, the opposition created a ruckus," Rijiju explained.
He further elaborated on what he perceived as disrespect toward national icons and historical commemorations. "I can tolerate my insult, but Guru Tegh Bahadur, Bhupen Hazarika, Sardar Patel, 125th anniversary of Birsa Munda, insulting these altogether, and all over that insulting while mentioning the 150th anniversary of Vande mataram. I believe the country will not forgive. Politics can be done in anything, but politics in these matters, I think, the country will not forgive them," the minister asserted.
Opposition's Stance on MGNREGA Protest
Meanwhile, opposition parties defended their actions as a "dignified" protest against the government's decision to scrap the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted on social media platform X that "all Opposition parties most respectfully and in a dignified manner protested the bulldozed repeal of MGNREGA."
The protest occurred specifically when President Murmu mentioned the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act during her address. Opposition MPs stood up in protest as the President explained that "with this new reform, there will be 125 days of employment guarantees in villages..."
Budget Session Schedule and Presidential Address Highlights
The Budget Session 2026-2027 is scheduled to span 30 sittings over 65 days, with proceedings concluding on April 2. The parliamentary schedule includes a recess beginning February 13, with both Houses reconvening on March 9. This break will enable Standing Committees to examine the Demands for Grants of various ministries and departments.
In her address, President Droupadi Murmu outlined the union government's vision focusing on social justice, inclusive growth, and the development of India as a developed nation. She emphasized various initiatives and reforms aimed at rural employment and comprehensive national progress.
Broader Implications for Parliamentary Decorum
The incident has sparked significant debate about parliamentary decorum and the appropriate methods of protest within legislative bodies. Rijiju's strong condemnation reflects growing concerns about maintaining respect during presidential addresses and important parliamentary proceedings.
The minister's remarks underscore the tension between the government and opposition parties regarding both procedural matters and substantive policy disagreements. As the Budget Session continues, observers will be watching how these dynamics evolve and whether similar disruptions occur during crucial legislative discussions.
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to meet again on Thursday at 11 AM, where further discussions on the Budget and other legislative matters are expected to take place amidst this charged political atmosphere.
