Lok Sabha Faces Turmoil Again: Opposition Protests Over Electoral Roll Revisions
Chaos Continues in Lok Sabha
New Delhi: The Lok Sabha experienced yet another day of disorder on Friday, marking the fifth consecutive day of disruptions, leading to an early adjournment.
Speaker Om Birla called on the Opposition to engage in discussions to resolve the ongoing deadlock, but his request fell on deaf ears. With the uproar continuing unabated, he decided to suspend the session until 2 p.m.
As the session began, members of Parliament united to honor the valiant soldiers of Kargil. Speaker Birla led a moment of silence to pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, commemorates India's triumph over Pakistan in 1999, when Indian forces successfully reclaimed the heights of Kargil in Ladakh.
In his tribute, Speaker Birla remarked, "Today marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. Our courageous forces faced tremendous challenges and operated under harsh conditions to overcome the enemy. We honor their bravery and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country."
Following the tribute, Opposition members erupted in protests regarding the Election Commission of India's revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, storming the well of the House. They chanted slogans and displayed placards, prompting a stern warning from the Speaker, who had previously cautioned against such actions.
He invited the protesting lawmakers to meet with him directly to resolve the impasse, emphasizing that the Question Hour should focus on significant national issues rather than protests.
The Speaker urged both sides to engage in constructive dialogue to find a resolution.
When the protests persisted, he questioned the lawmakers, asking, "Do you not wish to debate in the House? Do you not want the House to function?"
With the uproar continuing, he adjourned the session until 2 p.m.
The Congress-led Opposition has been steadfast in its demonstrations against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, labeling it an "institutionalized cleansing drive" by the Election Commission to favor the ruling party.