Lok Sabha Adjourned Twice Amid Opposition Demand for Rahul Gandhi to Speak First
The Budget Session of Parliament witnessed significant disruption on Monday as the Lok Sabha was adjourned twice, first until noon and later until 2 pm, due to persistent demands from Opposition members. The core issue revolved around the speaking order, with Congress members insisting that Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi be allowed to speak before others during the general discussion on the Union Budget.
Disruption During Question Hour
When the House commenced with Question Hour, Opposition members attempted to raise various pressing issues. Speaker Om Birla, however, directed them to wait for Zero Hour or the general budget discussion. As the members refused to relent, Birla was compelled to adjourn the proceedings until noon to restore order.
Continued Deadlock After Reassembly
Upon reassembling at noon, with Telugu Desam Party (TDP) member Krishna Prasad Tenneti presiding, the situation remained tense. Tenneti called upon Congress MP Shashi Tharoor to speak on the Budget, as per the party's nomination. However, Congress members vociferously demanded that Rahul Gandhi be given priority to address the House first.
Tenneti clarified that the Congress had officially named Tharoor as their speaker for the Budget discussion and inquired if the Leader of the Opposition intended to speak on the Budget as well. With no resolution in sight and continued protests, Tenneti adjourned the House once more, this time until 2 pm, highlighting the ongoing parliamentary impasse.
Speaker Birla Congratulates Under-19 Cricket Team
Earlier in the day, soon after the House assembled at 11 am, Speaker Om Birla took a moment to lead the Lok Sabha in congratulating the Indian Under-19 men's cricket team for their historic victory in the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026. Birla praised the young cricketers for their exceptional skill, unwavering determination, remarkable discipline, and outstanding teamwork throughout the tournament.
The Indian team secured the World Cup by defeating England in the final match held in Harare, Zimbabwe, on February 6, 2026. Birla emphasized that this achievement serves as a powerful inspiration for youth across India, encouraging them to pursue excellence in their respective fields.
"Their achievement has inspired young people across the country to strive for excellence," Birla stated. He extended the House's best wishes for the team's bright future, expressing hope that this success would motivate aspiring young players nationwide in the years to come.
The dual focus of the day—parliamentary proceedings and national sporting glory—underscored the diverse responsibilities of the Lok Sabha, even as disruptions highlighted the ongoing political tensions during this critical Budget Session.
