With the Winter Session of Parliament approaching, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju has issued a stark warning to the Opposition, stating that their frequent disruptions of parliamentary proceedings have proven to be a political disaster for them, leading to electoral losses.
Disruptions Harm Opposition's Political Prospects
Speaking at The Indian Express's Idea Exchange, Rijiju elaborated on his stance. He asserted that by consistently disrupting the work of Parliament, opposition parties are facing defeat in election after election. He emphasized that misusing the parliamentary forum to push a narrow political agenda does not yield the political dividends they might expect.
Rijiju contrasted the current opposition's strategy with the approach of the BJP and NDA when they were in opposition. He recalled that they carefully selected issues, such as the Commonwealth Games and 2G scandals, which were substantial and had a significant political impact, leading to a logical conclusion.
On Discussing Autonomous Bodies like the Election Commission
The Minister also addressed the expectation that the Opposition will raise the issue of the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls during the session. Rijiju advised against discussing autonomous constitutional bodies like the EC or the Supreme Court on the floor of the House.
He clarified that the government cannot speak on behalf of these authorities. However, he indicated that a discussion could be possible if the subject is broadened to encompass reforms, which the government is always open to bringing.
Government Business Continues, Opposition MPs Suffer
Reflecting on the previous Monsoon Session, which was marred by disruptions over the SIR exercise, Rijiju described it as highly successful from the government's perspective for passing its legislative agenda. He expressed concern that when sessions are washed out, it is the Opposition MPs who are the biggest victims.
Rijiju pointed out that an MP's performance is judged by their contributions in the House. When Parliament doesn't function, government business continues through other means, but it prevents MPs from speaking and showcasing their work to their constituents.
The Minister also acknowledged a deterioration in parliamentary standards and placed part of the blame on a handful of failed leaders within the Opposition who, he claims, drive its agenda, making constructive dialogue difficult. He revealed that many senior opposition MPs have privately urged him to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament.
