In a firm response to Opposition demands, the Union government on Tuesday signaled its willingness to discuss the controversial Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls but categorically refused to be bound by any fixed timeline. The statement from Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju came amid heightened tensions in Parliament, following a walkout by Opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha.
Opposition Walkout and Government's Stance
The Rajya Sabha witnessed a heated exchange after multiple Opposition parties pressed for an immediate debate on the SIR process. Their demand for urgent deliberation culminated in a staged walkout. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O'Brien made a serious allegation, claiming that "people are dying because of SIR," underscoring the charged atmosphere surrounding the issue.
Responding to the uproar, Minister Kiren Rijiju pushed back against the pressure tactics. He emphasized that while the government is open to discussions, it will not operate under fixed timelines dictated by the Opposition. Rijiju clarified that the day's scheduled discussion on 'Vande Mataram' would take precedence due to its historical and national importance.
Rijiju Accuses Opposition of Frustration Over Poll Losses
Going on the offensive, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister accused the Opposition of prioritizing political theatrics over constructive dialogue. He stressed that Parliament must function through structured dialogue and debate, not through disruptions and ultimatums. Rijiju suggested that the Opposition's aggressive stance was a way of venting frustration over recent electoral defeats rather than a genuine attempt at parliamentary discussion on a substantive issue.
His remarks aimed to reframe the narrative, positioning the government as a proponent of orderly parliamentary process and the Opposition as an entity seeking to derail it with unreasonable demands.
Implications for Parliamentary Proceedings
The standoff highlights the ongoing friction between the treasury and opposition benches on several key issues, with the SIR of electoral rolls becoming the latest flashpoint. The government's dual message—openness to discuss but resistance to deadlines—sets the stage for further negotiations. It remains to be seen if the Opposition will relent on its demand for an immediate debate or if the issue will continue to stall proceedings in the coming days.
The core facts remain centered on the events of Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with Minister Kiren Rijiju's statement serving as the government's official position. The ball is now in the Opposition's court to decide its next parliamentary strategy regarding the SIR debate.
