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Opposition Protests Lead to Suspension of Lok Sabha Amid VB-G RAM G Bill Controversy

The recent sessions of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have been marked by significant opposition protests against the VB-G RAM G Bill, leading to an indefinite suspension of the Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the session, which saw the passage of several key bills, including the controversial VB-G RAM G Bill. The Rajya Sabha concluded its session with a farewell speech from the Vice President, highlighting the productivity of the discussions. Amidst the protests, the government managed to push through various legislative measures, including the repeal of outdated laws and discussions on electoral reforms. This article delves into the events that unfolded in Parliament, showcasing the tension between the government and opposition.
 

Lok Sabha Suspended Amid Protests

In response to the opposition's demonstrations against the VB-G RAM G Bill, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced an indefinite suspension of the house after the national anthem was played on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who returned from a trip to three countries, was present in the house today. Shortly after the Rajya Sabha reconvened at 11 AM, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan also suspended the session. Prior to the suspension, statements and reports were presented on the floor of the house.


Opposition's Continued Resistance

Meanwhile, the opposition maintained its vocal dissent against the passage of the Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) (VB-G RAM G) Bill. On Friday, a united opposition staged protests outside Parliament, with members of the Trinamool Congress continuing their demonstration on the steps of the house entrance. Rahul Gandhi, the opposition leader in the Lok Sabha, who is currently in Germany, criticized the bill, labeling it as deliberately anti-national and detrimental to rural interests.


Rajya Sabha Session Concludes

The 269th session of the Rajya Sabha concluded on Friday with a farewell speech from the Vice President and Chairman. C.P. Radhakrishnan highlighted the productivity and constructive debates of the winter session. Addressing the house, he noted the significance of this session as it was his first time presiding over the house since taking office. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, ministers, J.P. Nadda, opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge, and all members for their encouragement and support.


Productivity Highlights

The Chairman remarked that members collaborated effectively, completing substantial work, and agreed to extend sessions or forgo lunch breaks on five occasions. He noted an unprecedented number of zero-hour notices, averaging over 84 per day, which is a 31% increase compared to previous sessions. The average number of issues raised during zero hour exceeded 15 per day, marking a nearly 50% rise from earlier sessions. He emphasized the need to continue this good work, reminding members that the citizens of this great nation view them as guardians of democracy.


Lok Sabha Achievements

Speaker Om Birla reported that there were 15 meetings during this session, with a productivity rate of approximately 111% thanks to the cooperation of all members. During this time, both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh were present. The house approved eight government bills, including the 'Developed India-G RAM G Bill, 2025', which replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and faced significant opposition. Other bills passed included the 'Sustainable Utilization and Enhancement of Nuclear Energy for Transformation of India (Peace) Bill, 2025', and the 'Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025'.


Legislative Changes

The Lok Sabha also approved the 'Repeal and Amendment Bill, 2025', which proposes to repeal and amend 71 outdated laws. Additionally, the house passed the 'Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025', the 'Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025', and the 'Health Security to National Security Cess Bill, 2025', which includes provisions for levying a tax on chewing tobacco. Discussions also took place regarding the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram and electoral reforms. Earlier, the opposition had demanded a discussion on the Special Intensive Review of Voter Lists (SIR), which disrupted proceedings during the first two days of the winter session. Ultimately, an agreement was reached to discuss electoral reforms, allowing the house to commence its work.