Piyush Goyal Criticizes Congress Amidst Discussion on West Asia Conflict

On Monday, during a scheduled debate regarding the no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker, Union Minister Piyush Goyal sharply criticized the Congress party for demanding a discussion on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed both houses that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation in the region. Addressing the houses about the instability in West Asia, Jaishankar confirmed that the government has issued formal advisories for Indian citizens in the area.

 

However, opposition members raised slogans and displayed placards instead of engaging in a discussion about the minister's statements. Goyal labeled Congress MP Rahul Gandhi as an ineffective opposition leader, accusing him of creating discord within the INDIA alliance. He accused the Congress party of disrupting the house and wasting time, stating that a notice was accepted at their request, and it was decided that the discussion would take place today. Meanwhile, they brought forth another proposal, showing a lack of understanding of parliamentary procedures and disrespect for the Constitution.

Goyal remarked that since Rahul Gandhi assumed the role of opposition leader, the desire to conduct parliamentary proceedings seems to have vanished. He noted that they arrive with a pre-planned strategy, carrying placards and causing disturbances in the house, wasting parliamentary time on baseless issues. He pointed out that even members of their own alliance are distancing themselves from this debate. The central minister further stated that a rift has emerged within the INDIA alliance, asserting that Rahul Gandhi is a failed opposition leader who lacks comprehension of the Constitution, parliamentary processes, and rules. His approach indicates that Congress is a directionless and entirely ineffective opposition party. I believe that their allies, DMK and TMC, are beginning to realize this, which is why they have withdrawn support from Congress in today’s debate.

 

Earlier today, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticized the central government regarding External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's parliamentary statement on the West Asia conflict and demanded a discussion on the matter. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Tharoor stated that reading statements without discussion is unjust to the MPs.