New Delhi, July 21: The Monsoon Session of Parliament kicked off on a stormy note Monday, with Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack dominating discussions in both Houses. The session witnessed repeated disruptions as opposition parties accused the government of not allowing them to speak, while the government countered that the opposition was stalling proceedings despite its readiness to hold a discussion.
Members of the opposition raised slogans, demanding that the Question Hour be suspended in favour of an immediate debate on the May 7 military strike — Operation Sindoor — which targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 civilian lives, mostly tourists.
In the Rajya Sabha, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the opposition was not seeking to politicise the military operation but merely wanted a detailed discussion. “We are not questioning the armed forces. We want the House to be informed,” he said. However, both Houses continued to face interruptions as slogans and protests escalated.
The Lok Sabha was adjourned twice due to uproar. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to discussing both Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam incident. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla appealed for order, stating, “The government wants to answer on every issue. The House should function. All issues raised according to the rules will be discussed.”
Speaking outside Parliament, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his frustration, claiming the government side was allowed to speak, while the opposition was being silenced. “We wanted to say two words, but were not allowed. If ministers can speak, why can’t the opposition?” he asked.
Responding to these accusations, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and several BJP MPs slammed the opposition for creating chaos. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal criticized Rahul Gandhi, remarking that disrupting Parliament has become routine for Congress. “He doesn’t even stay in the House when his questions are addressed,” Pal said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier addressed the media before the session, praising India’s armed forces for their success during Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack. “The entire world has seen India’s strength. Our forces achieved 100% of their objectives,” he said.
PM Modi urged all MPs to rise above party lines and acknowledge the military’s achievement. “When Parliament, in one voice, celebrates this victory, it strengthens the morale of our armed forces,” he added, also applauding the role of political parties in exposing Pakistan’s role in sponsoring terrorism on international platforms.
The opposition is also expected to raise the issue of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bihar, citing concerns ahead of the assembly elections.
