TMC MP Delivers Powerful Budget Critique Through Bollywood Poetry
In a dramatic moment during the Rajya Sabha's budget discussion on Tuesday, senior Trinamool Congress MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray turned to classic Hindi cinema to voice his concerns about the Union Budget 2026-27. The parliamentarian quoted lines from the iconic song Yeh Duniya Agar Mil Bhi Jaaye To Kya Hai, composed by legendary lyricist Sahir Ludhianvi for Guru Dutt's 1957 masterpiece Pyaasa.
A Fifteen-Minute Speech Addressing Economic Disparities
During his nearly fifteen-minute address, Ray launched a pointed criticism of the government's handling of income inequalities across the nation. The MP meticulously outlined how economic disparities have widened despite overall growth figures, arguing that the budget failed to address fundamental structural issues.
Ray also took aim at the India-US interim trade deal, questioning its long-term benefits for ordinary Indian citizens and small businesses. He suggested that the agreement might disproportionately favor multinational corporations while offering limited protections for domestic industries and workers.
Dramatic Conclusion with Poetic Flair
When Deputy Chairman Harivansh reminded the parliamentarian that he had exceeded his allotted speaking time, Ray chose to conclude with powerful finality. He recited the stirring lines: "Jala Do Isse, Phoonk Daalo Yeh Duniya... Tumhari Hai Tum Hi Sambhalon Yeh Duniya" (Burn it, blow away this world... This world is yours, you take care of it), leaving a lasting impression on the parliamentary proceedings.
BJP MP Advocates for Enhanced Air Connectivity from Punjab
In a separate development during the same session, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu made an impassioned plea for improved international air connectivity from Punjab. The parliamentarian specifically demanded a 'point of call' designation for the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh, which would significantly increase the number of flights to global destinations.
"Punjabi Dil Maange More" for Global Connectivity
Sandhu acknowledged that Punjab had "got much" from the BJP-led central government in terms of aviation sector development, but emphasized that Punjabi citizens wanted enhanced direct flight options to key international hubs. "Punjab has got a lot in this growth in the aviation sector but Punjabi dil maange more," he stated, referencing the popular advertising slogan to underscore his constituents' aspirations.
The MP specifically mentioned increasing direct flights to London, Singapore, and Vancouver as priority destinations that would benefit Punjabi travelers and businesses alike. He argued that improved connectivity would strengthen cultural ties with the Punjabi diaspora while boosting economic opportunities.
Additional Focus on Cargo Capacity Expansion
Beyond passenger flights, Sandhu also advocated for increased cargo capacity at Punjab's two existing international airports. He highlighted how enhanced freight capabilities would directly support the state's export economy, particularly benefiting agricultural producers and manufacturing industries seeking to reach international markets more efficiently.
The dual presentations during Tuesday's Rajya Sabha session showcased how parliamentarians from different political parties are using parliamentary platforms to address both philosophical concerns about economic justice and practical matters of regional infrastructure development.
