Parliament Budget Session Erupts in Protests and Heated Debates
The second phase of the Budget Session in Parliament witnessed significant turmoil on Tuesday, marked by protests and intense political exchanges. Opposition members staged a demonstration at Makar Dwar, the entrance to Parliament, raising slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the government's handling of the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Several MPs held placards and banners criticizing the Centre, with some lawmakers who were suspended earlier in the session joining the protest.
Disruptions and Demands for Debate on West Asia Crisis
Inside the House, proceedings were disrupted as opposition MPs demanded a detailed discussion on the West Asia conflict. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused the government of avoiding debate on the issue, arguing that the crisis could significantly impact India's economy due to potential increases in global oil prices and wider economic implications. This protest followed external affairs minister S Jaishankar's statement in Parliament a day earlier, where he informed both Houses that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring developments and that advisories have been issued to Indian nationals in Iran for their safety.
No-Confidence Motion Against Speaker Om Birla
Political tensions escalated further with a resolution moved by Congress MPs seeking a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The motion alleges partisan conduct by the Speaker after Rahul Gandhi was allegedly not allowed to speak in the House. Congress MP Mohammad Jawed formally moved the resolution, supported by more than 50 MPs, initiating a debate. According to parliamentary procedures, several hours have been allotted for discussion before a vote on the motion.
During the debate, opposition leaders criticized the functioning of the House, while BJP members rejected the allegations as baseless. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi stated that the motion aimed to protect the dignity of Parliament, not personal animosity. BJP leaders, including Ravi Shankar Prasad and Nishikant Dubey, defended the Speaker's adherence to parliamentary rules.
Government Business and Legislative Agenda
Amid the political developments, Parliament is also scheduled to handle regular legislative and financial business. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to present the second batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for the financial year 2025–26 in both Houses. In the Lok Sabha, Minister of State SP Singh Baghel will present a statement on implementing recommendations from the Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing.
Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha will continue discussions on the functioning of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and is set to debate the working of the Rural Development Ministry.
Upcoming Address by Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to address the Lok Sabha during the debate on the no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla. His remarks are expected to outline the government's position and respond to allegations raised by opposition members. This follows a day of sharp exchanges over parliamentary procedures, with AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi and Congress MP KC Venugopal raising procedural objections about who should preside over the debate, which the government dismissed.
The Budget Session began on January 28, with the first phase concluding on February 13. The second phase will continue until April 2, featuring ongoing debates, legislative work, and potential further political clashes as the session progresses.
