Intense Protests Disrupt Rajya Sabha Session Over Electoral Roll Revisions

The Rajya Sabha's session on December 2 was abruptly adjourned due to intense protests from opposition members concerning the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Led by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, the opposition demanded urgent discussions on alleged voter disenfranchisement, claiming significant issues affecting marginalized communities. Despite appeals for order from Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan, the uproar persisted, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the Winter Session of Parliament. This situation underscores the challenges facing the government as it navigates legislative business amidst rising opposition discontent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 2, 2025, 13:01 IST

Rajya Sabha Session Cut Short Amid Protests

On December 2, New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha, which is the upper chamber of India's Parliament, experienced a tumultuous session on Tuesday morning, leading to its adjournment until 2 p.m. This disruption was primarily due to heightened protests from opposition members regarding the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

The session was halted just 20 minutes after it began, highlighting the ongoing deadlock in the Winter Session, which is now in its second day. The opposition's demands for a discussion on alleged voter disenfranchisement have overshadowed the legislative agenda.

Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan, who took office in September, convened the House at 11 a.m., but was immediately met with loud protests from opposition members.

Led by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and allies from the INDIA coalition, including the Trinamool Congress, DMK, and AAP, members entered the Well of the House, displaying placards that read "Vote Chor, Gaddi Chod (Vote Thief, Quit the Throne)."

They reiterated their demand for an urgent discussion under Rule 267 concerning the SIR process, which is currently being conducted in 12 states and union territories in preparation for the 2026 Assembly elections. They claimed this process has resulted in over 30 deaths among Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and the wrongful removal of millions of names, particularly affecting marginalized communities.

Kharge, referencing unresolved notices from the previous day, accused the government of prioritizing its own interests over democratic principles.

"We submitted comprehensive notices yesterday, detailing names and subjects, but they were disregarded. Thirty lives have been lost, families devastated, and yet you choose to ignore it all," he stated.

In response, Leader of the House J.P. Nadda called for calm, assuring that consultations would take place. "The Chair will make the decisions; let’s not derail the session. There are several bills pending," he remarked.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, however, countered with a mix of appeal and challenge, stating, "You are fixated on a single issue while the nation faces floods, job crises, and security concerns. You lose elections and vent your anger here—focus on governance instead of theatrics."

This comment prompted sharp responses, with Trinamool Congress member Derek O'Brien retorting, "We are fighting for votes, not revenge; your delays are the real spectacle."

Chairman Radhakrishnan, maintaining his composure, repeatedly called for order, warning against disruptions. Despite his appeals, the uproar continued, leading to the session's adjournment until 2 p.m.