Why Did Opposition Leaders Walk Out of Rajya Sabha During Modi's Speech?

In a significant political move, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announced the Opposition's walkout from the Rajya Sabha during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address. This decision was fueled by the government's refusal to allow the Leaders of Opposition to speak. Kharge criticized the government's silence on derogatory remarks made in the House and emphasized the need for protest against the disrespect shown to their leaders. This article delves into the details of the incident and the implications for the political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 5, 2026, 20:51 IST

Opposition's Walkout in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi: On Thursday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announced that the Opposition parties chose to exit the Rajya Sabha during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response to the Motion of Thanks concerning the President's Address. This decision stemmed from the government's apparent intention to prevent both Leaders of Opposition (LoPs) from speaking.

Accompanied by fellow Opposition leaders in the Upper House, Kharge, who also serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, expressed that the Modi administration has decided that neither he nor Rahul Gandhi would be permitted to voice their opinions in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.

Kharge emphasized the sacrifices made by great leaders who fought for India's freedom, stating that one individual dominates the discussions in the House, while others are silenced. He criticized the government for allowing derogatory remarks to go unchallenged, questioning whether the BJP has ever condemned such behavior.

In light of this, Kharge stated that the Opposition leaders collectively resolved to walk out and protest, particularly in response to the disrespect shown towards their leaders.