The Parliament convened on 9 March 2026 for the second phase of the Budget Session 2026. Discussions in both Houses reflected the external strategic challenges, particularly the evolving situation in West Asia with ongoing debates over parliamentary procedure, governance priorities, and economic implications.
During the proceedings, the Government outlined its diplomatic and administrative response to the West Asia conflict, emphasising the safety of nearly one crore Indians residing in the Gulf region, the stability of energy supplies, and the broader economic implications for India. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar informed the House that the Cabinet Committee on Security had reviewed the situation and that coordinated diplomatic efforts had already facilitated the safe return of approximately 67,000 Indian nationals from the region.
Alongside foreign policy developments, parliamentary proceedings also featured discussions on energy security, aviation safety, urban governance, and environmental policy, reflecting the wide range of governance issues currently before Parliament. At the same time, procedural confrontations, particularly surrounding the no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker led to disruptions in the Lok Sabha, underscoring the continuing political contest between the Government and the Opposition.
Key Highlights Of The Proceedings
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha commenced at 11:00 AM.
In the Lok Sabha, Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) congratulated the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and informed the House about taking up the discussion on No Confidence Motion against the Speaker.
Dr. S. Jaishankar (Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs; BJP, Gujarat) laid a statement and discussed the West Asia situation in the House underlining the following key points:
The Cabinet Committee on Security, under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji met to assess the safety of Indians, regional stability, and economic implications.
Nearly 1 crore Indians are living and working in Gulf countries and that the region is vital for India’s energy security and trade of about US $200 billion
Indian missions in Tehran, Israel, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Oman assisted stranded nationals and facilitated their return, with about 67,000 Indians having returned, while the Prime Minister and the Ministry of External Affairs remained in contact with regional leaders to ensure their safety.
In the Lok Sabha, Shri Kiren Rijiju (Union Minister, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; BJP, Arunachal West, Arunachal Pradesh) criticized the Opposition for submitting an Adjournment Notice concerning the No-confidence Motion against the Speaker, Shri Om Birla Ji, despite the original motion No-confidence Motion already pending, calling it irresponsible. Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) supported the observation, noting that the Opposition had moved the motion but was refusing to participate in the debate.
In the Lok Sabha, amidst continued disruptions and attempts to enter the Well of the House by the Opposition, Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) warned the Opposition of wasting public money and adjourned the House.
In the Rajya Sabha, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) congratulated the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (INC, Karnataka) raised Short Duration Discussion under Rule 176 on emerging challenges to India’s energy security. He noted that 55% of crude oil imports come from Russia and raised concerns over the safety of nearly 1 crore Indians in the region and rising domestic costs such as a ₹7 increase in cooking gas prices.
In response, Dr. S. Jaishankar (Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs; BJP, Gujarat) noted that nearly 1 crore Indians live and work in the region and highlighting its importance for India’s energy supplies and trade worth about US $200 billion. He informed that the Government reviewed the situation with focus on the safety of Indians, regional security and economic implications, adding that diplomatic missions assisted stranded passengers, nearly 67,000 Indians have returned, facilities were extended to Iranian vessels at Kochi, and steps are being taken to ensure energy availability while protecting consumers.
In the Rajya Sabha, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) proceeded to discuss Matters Raised with Permission.
Dr. Medha Vishram Kulkarni (BJP, Maharashtra) highlighted the rising number of road accidents in India, noting that over 1.8 lakh deaths occurred in 2024, including 15,400 deaths in Maharashtra and 320 in Pune alone.
Smt. Maya Naroliya (BJP, Madhya Pradesh) raised concerns about the high prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls in the Narmadapuram region, stating that 55–60% were affected compared to about 65% nationally.
In the Rajya Sabha, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) commenced the Question Hour.
Smt. Sangeeta Yadav (BJP, Uttar Pradesh ) asked how many registrations had been initiated on the UMEED portal and how many had been approved. She further asked what capacity-building measures had been undertaken before the launch of the portal. In response, Shri George Kurian (MoS, Ministry of Minority Affairs; BJP, Madhya Pradesh) stated that about 6,34,055 registrations had been initiated, 2,93,380 had been approved and 37,533 had been rejected. The minister further stated that extensive consultations and capacity-building exercises were undertaken before the launch of the UMEED portal.
Kum. Swati Maliwal (AAP, NCT of Delhi) asked why only 43 sq km New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) area was included under the Smart Cities Mission, while the larger Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) area, affecting over 2 crore residents, faced issues like broken roads, garbage, lack of green belts, and traffic congestion, and whether the rest of Delhi would be included. In response, Shri Manohar Lal (Union Minister, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; Bharatiya Janata Party, Karnal, Haryana) stated that the Mission was a one-time programme allowing states to select a small area for focused improvement, and Delhi had chosen the NDMC area.
Shri Milind Murli Deora (SS, Maharashtra) inquired about aviation safety amid the West Asia crisis and the Air India AI-171 crash investigation. In response, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu (Union Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation; TDP, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh) stated that DGCA issued advisories to airlines and passengers, ensuring safe operations, with around 90,000 passengers travelling in the past week despite disruptions. He added that the AI-171 investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is ongoing, with the final report expected by year-end.
In the Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh Ji (Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha; JD(U), Bihar) proceeded with Discussion on the working of the MoEF&CC.
Shri Ghanshyam Tiwari (BJP, Rajasthan) highlighted the rise in the Ministry’s budget allocation from ₹2,430 crore in 2014 to ₹3,759.46 crore for 2026–27. He also highlighted achievements in wetland conservation, clean air initiatives, tribal land rights, large-scale tree plantation, CAMPA funding, the success of Project Tiger and progress in non-fossil fuel energy and other climate initiatives.
Shri Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla (YSRCP, Andhra Pradesh) stressed shifting from isolated pollution control to integrated environmental protection for Viksit Bharat, noting 50% non-fossil fuel energy by 2025, environmental degradation costing 5.7% of GDP, and water scarcity affecting 6% of GDP. He called for a strategic review, stronger municipal governance, a circular economy transition, and other reforms.
Smt. Swati Maliwal (AAP, National Capital Territory of Delhi) highlighted Delhi as the world’s most polluted capital, calling for holistic planning, stronger public transport, stricter controls on stubble burning, thermal plants, construction dust and waste, autonomous Commission for Air Quality Management, coordinated Delhi-NCR action, and temporary relief like GST removal on air purifiers.
The proceedings of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 3:08 PM and 5:47 PM, 9th March, 2026, respectively, to reconvene at 11:00 A.M on Tuesday, 10th March, 2026.
I. Lok Sabha Proceedings:
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha commenced at 11:00 AM.
Shri N.K. Premachandran Ji (RSP, Kollam, Kerala) commenced the proceedings of the House. He made obituary references for Dr. Ricky Andrew J. Syngkon, Smt. Sushila Tririya, Shri Devi Bux Singh, Shri Purnmasi Ram and Shri K.P. Unnikrishnan
The proceedings of the House were adjourned at 11:03 AM to reconvene at 12 PM.
The House was reconvened at 12 PM with Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) in the Chair, who congratulated the Indian Team for winning the T20 World Cup final against New Zealand. He noted that with this victory, the team had become the champion for the third time, marking a significant milestone for the country.
Following this, Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) informed the House that the discussion on the No-confidence Motion against the Speaker Om Birla Ji was listed in the day’s agenda and would be taken up according to the scheduled order of business.
Dr. S. Jaishankar (Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs; BJP, Gujarat) laid a statement on the situation in West Asia and informed the House about the same. Some of the relevant highlights are as follows:
Regarding the ongoing conflict, he informed the House that the conflict beginning on 28th February 2026 involved Israel and the United States against Iran, with attacks affecting Gulf states.
Regarding the Government’s response, he informed that India expressed concern over the conflict, urged restraint and de-escalation, and called for dialogue with all the parties involved while emphasizing respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
The Cabinet Committee on Security met on 1st March, 2026 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister to review the situation, including the safety of Indians, regional stability, and economic implications.
He informed the House that nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, and the region is crucial for India’s energy security and trade of about US $200 billion annually.
Regarding evacuation efforts, he informed that Indian missions in Tehran, Israel, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman coordinated evacuations, facilitated flights and border crossings, and set up 24x7 helplines, resulting in the safe return of 67,000 Indian nationals.
Regarding diplomatic engagement, he informed the House that the Prime Minister and he himself remained in contact with leaders and counterparts in several regional countries, including Iran, to ensure the safety of the Indian community.
Regarding humanitarian assistance, he added that India permitted the Iranian vessel IRIS LAVAN to dock at Kochi and extended facilities to its crew as a humanitarian gesture.
Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) urged members to stop raising placards and disrupting proceedings, noting that the Dr. S. Jaishankar (Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs; BJP, Gujarat) had already assured the House on energy security, and advised that any further concerns be raised before the Business Advisory Committee.
Shri Kiren Rijiju (Union Minister, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; BJP, Arunachal West, Arunachal Pradesh) criticized the Opposition for submitting an adjournment notice concerning the No-confidence Motion against the Speaker, Shri Om Birla Ji, despite the original motion No-confidence Motion already pending, calling it irresponsible and disruptive. Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) supported these observations, noting that the Opposition had moved the motion but was refusing to participate in the debate even after its acceptance. Further, he urged the Opposition to participate as the matter concerned the office of the Speaker and the orderly functioning of the House.
The House was adjourned at 12:32 PM due to constant disruptions and reconvened at 3:00 PM. In the chair, Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) recommenced the proceedings of the House and urged Shri Mohammad Jawed (INC, Kishanganj, Bihar) to formally move the resolution for removal of the Speaker Shri Om Birla Ji (BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) that he had submitted.
Amid continued disruptions and attempts to enter the Well of the House, Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) cautioned the Opposition that such conduct was wasting public money. He highlighted that parliamentary proceedings cost about ₹ 1.5–₹ 2.5 lakh per minute and adjourned the House due to persistent disorder.
The Lok Sabha was adjourned at 3:08 PM to reconvene at 11:00 A.M on Tuesday, 10th March, 2026.
II. Rajya Sabha Proceedings:
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha commenced at 11:00 AM.
Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) presided over the proceedings of the House and made obituary references to the passing of Shri Mukul Roy Ji, Dr. Janardhan Waghmare and Shri H.K. Dua, former members of the House.
The Speaker congratulated the Indian Cricket Team for winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and highlighted that this was India’s 3rd title and a historic back-to-back victory, making India the first nation to win the tournament consecutively.
Following this, the Chair laid a Proclamation under Article 356 of the Constitution revoking President’s Rule in Manipur, which was imposed on 4th February, 2026 and lifted on 13th February, 2016. along with other Papers and Reports.
Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (INC, Karnataka) raised Short Duration Discussion under Rule 176 on emerging challenges to India’s energy security. He stated that regional conflicts were affecting India’s economic stability, energy supplies, and global standing, noting that about 55% of India’s crude oil imports come from Russia. He also highlighted concerns over the safety of nearly one crore Indians working in the region and the rising domestic impact, including an increase of ₹ 7 in cooking gas cylinder prices.
In response, Dr. S. Jaishankar (Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs; BJP, Gujarat) made a statement on recent developments in West Asia.
He informed that nearly 1 crore Indians live and work in the region and the region is crucial for India’s oil and gas supplies and trade worth around US $200 billion.
He further informed that the Cabinet Committee on Security reviewed the situation and is focusing on the safety of civilians and the Indian community, regional security, and economic implications.
He elaborated upon the diplomatic missions that assisted stranded passengers and facilitated travel arrangements and noted that nearly 67,000 Indians had returned to the country.
He informed that dockingpermission was granted to Iranian vessels at Kochi and facilities were extended to their crew. He further added that the Government remains committed to ensuring energy availability while protecting the interests of Indian consumers.
Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda Ji (BJP, Gujarat) endorsed the response of Dr. S. Jaishankar (Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs; BJP, Gujarat) emphasising Government efforts and response. Furthermore, he highlighted repeated misconduct by the Opposition including those on electoral reforms, Viksit Bharat 2047, Operation Sindoor, the Pahalgam attack, the Waqf Board, and the Union Budget 2025.
Following this, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) proceeded to discuss Matters Raised with Permission. (For Details refer Annexure III)
Dr. Medha Vishram Kulkarni (BJP, Maharashtra) highlighted the rising number of road accidents in India, noting that over 1.8 lakh deaths occurred in 2024, including 15,400 deaths in Maharashtra and 320 in Pune alone.
Dr. Ajeet Madhavrao Gopchade (BJP, Maharashtra) raised concerns over the increasing circulation of counterfeit Indian currency, particularly in smaller denominations, affecting small towns and rural markets.
Smt. Maya Naroliya (BJP, Madhya Pradesh) raised concerns about the high prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls in the Narmadapuram region, stating that 55–60% were affected compared to about 65% nationally.
Following the Zero Hour, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) commenced the Question Hour.
Shri Mastan Rao Yadav Beedha (TDP, Andhra Pradesh) questioned if the Government would strengthen the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and the Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies by approving more proposals from drought-prone districts of Andhra Pradesh. He further asked whether the Atal Bhujal Yojana would be expanded to include Andhra Pradesh with support for groundwater recharge and water-use efficiency.
In response, Shri C. R. Patil (Union Minister, Ministry of Jal Shakti; BJP, Navsari, Gujarat) stated that under PMKSY, 99 projects were identified in 2015–16, including 59 in drought-prone areas, of which 7 were completed in Andhra Pradesh, adding that no new projects have been taken up in the State in the last 3 years. He explained that the proposals are considered after the State submits a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for technical evaluation. He further stated that the Atal Bhujal Yojana has concluded and that Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) funds are being utilised for water conservation with 65% allocated for dark zones, 40% for semi-dark zones and 30% for general districts, adding that ₹32,000 crore has been allocated this year for this purpose and work is underway in all States.
Smt. Sangeeta Yadav (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) asked how many registrations had been initiated on the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) portal and how many had been approved. She further asked what capacity-building measures had been undertaken before the launch of the portal and whether any feedback or complaints had been received from beneficiaries or State Waqf Boards regarding its functioning.
In response, Shri George Kurian (MoS, Ministry of Minority Affairs; BJP, Madhya Pradesh) stated that about 6,34,055 registrations had been initiated, 2,93,380 had been approved and 37,533 had been rejected. Furthermore, he stated that extensive consultations and capacity-building exercises were undertaken before the launch of the UMEED portal. Two consultative meetings were held on 28th February 2025 and 8th May 2025, followed by a national workshop-cum-training programme on 26th and 27th May 2025 in which 140 master trainers from various States and Waqf Boards were trained. These trainers subsequently conducted training sessions for mutawallis and district-level officers.
Kum. Swati Maliwal (AAP, NCT of Delhi) asked why only the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) area of about 43 square kilometres in Delhi had been included under the Smart Cities Mission when the larger Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) area faced serious issues such as broken roads, garbage, lack of green belts and traffic congestion affecting more than 2 crore residents, and whether the rest of Delhi would also be included. In response, Shri Manohar Lal (Union Minister, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs; BJP, Karnal, Haryana) stated that the Smart Cities Mission was a one-time programme where states had the option to select a small area for improvement or city expansion within a limited allocation. Delhi had selected the NDMC area under this process.
Shri Kartikeya Sharma (Ind., Haryana) asked a supplementary question about how advanced technologies under the Smart Cities Mission had improved safety and security, particularly for women. Shri Manohar Lal (Union Minister, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs; BJP, Karnal, Haryana) replied that more than 83,000 CCTV cameras had been installed across the 100 smart cities, along with 1,884 emergency call boxes. Systems such as red-light violation detection, automatic number plate recognition and facial identification have also been deployed through the integrated command and control centres to improve safety.
Shri Milind Murli Deora (SS, Maharashtra) inquired about aviation safety amid the West Asia crisis and the investigation into the Air India AI-171 crash. In response, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu (Union Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation; TDP, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh) stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation had issued advisories to airlines and passengers to ensure safe operations, noting that around 90,000 passengers had travelled in the past week despite airspace disruptions. He added that the investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau into the AI-171 crash was progressing and the final report was expected by the end of the year.
Shri Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla (YSRCP, Andhra Pradesh) asked about the strategy for aviation safety norms under the Viksit Bharat 2047 and the role of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation among stakeholders. In response Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu (Union Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation; TDP, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh) stated that India is the world’s fastest-growing aviation market, with aircraft and passenger numbers doubling in 12 years, and plans to add 50 airports in 5 years and reach 350 in 20 years, alongside expansion of seaplane and helicopter connectivity. On safety, he stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation follows a multi-tier framework of inspection, surveillance, investigation, and enforcement aligned 100% with International Civil Aviation Organization standards.
Shri Golla Baburao (YSCRP, Andhra Pradesh) raised questions over the mandated 4% procurement target from SC/ST enterprises and whether it has been achieved across Central Ministries and PSUs and what steps are taken where targets fall short. In response, Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi (Union Minister, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises; HAM (S), Gaya (SC), Bihar) replied that although the target has not yet been fully met, procurement has increased from nearly 0% to about 1.79% over the past 4–5 years, with the Government continuing efforts to address challenges.
Dr. Ajit Gopchade (BJP, Maharashtra) asked a supplementary question inquiring about provisions for poor women from SC, ST, and OBC communities working through village Self-Help Groups (SHG) to generate self-employment in the MSME sector. Shri Jeetan Ram Manjhi (Union Minister, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises; HAM (S), Gaya (SC), Bihar) replied that women’s empowerment is a key priority and about 39% of MSME facilities are directed toward women, supported by initiatives such as the Yashaswini Scheme and other training programs.
Following this the proceedings of the House were adjourned till 2:00 PM.
In the Rajya Sabha Shri Harivansh Ji (Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha; JD(U), Bihar) proceeded with Discussion on the working of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
Shri Ghanshyam Tiwari (BJP, Rajasthan) initiated the discussion on the Demand for Grants for the MoEF&CC. He highlighted India’s cultural respect for nature and noted that the Ministry’s allocation rose from ₹ 2,430 crore in 2014 to ₹ 3,759.46 crore for 2026–27 with 98 wetlands developed for migratory birds and designation of Indore and Udaipur as Ramsar Wetland Cities. He further highlighted the decline in pollution level by 40% in 25 cities and allocation of ₹ 1,091 crore for clean air initiatives in 2026 Budget. He highlighted the progress in tribal land rights and other achievements including 282.4 crore tree plantations, release of ₹ 47,000 crore under CAMPA,attainment of 50% non-fossil fuel energy by 2025, reduction in emission intensity, implementation of the Ujjwala scheme, Mission Mausam alerts, promotion of e-vehicles, 18% ethanol blending and initiatives under the carbon market.
Shri Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla (YSRCP, Andhra Pradesh) highlighted that India must move from isolated pollution control to integrated environmental protection for Viksit Bharat. He noted that while India has improved pollution indices and achieved 50% non-fossil fuel energy by 2025, environmental degradation costs approximately 5.7% of GDP and water scarcity could affect 6% of GDP. He further highlighted structural deficits, weak implementation, limited budget, and staffing gaps and recommended a strategic review of MoEFCC, strengthened municipal governance, and a circular economy transition, along with other measures.
Shri Subhasish Khuntia (BJD, Odisha) highlighted Odisha’s rich biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, and Asia’s largest saltwater lake, stressing threats from sea erosion, large-scale mining affecting groundwater and rivers, industrial waste, illegal sand mining, and rising air pollution, including in the state capital. He urged protection of mangroves, tigers, and migratory species like sea turtles, proper coastal surveys, and criticised mineral exports without local benefit, noting these issues cause environmental and agricultural losses.
Kum. Swati Maliwal (AAP, NCT of Delhi) stated that Delhi has become the most polluted capital in the world, with severe health impacts. She stated that pollution cannot be reduced through advertisements and requires holistic long-term planning. She called for stronger public transport to curb vehicular pollution, measures against stubble burning, stricter control of thermal plants, construction dust, and waste burning. Furthermore, she urged for making the Commission for Air Quality Management an autonomous body with adequate resources, demanded coordinated Government action in Delhi-NCR, and temporary relief measures like removing GST on air purifiers and mandating them in sensitive institutions.
Shri Masthan Rao Yadav Beeda (TDP, Andhra Pradesh) supported the increased MoEF&CC budget, highlighting a 40% rise for forestry and wildlife programs. He noted India’s achievements, including a 40% particular matter reduction since 2004, renewable energy surpassing 50% of capacity by December, 2025 and successes like Project Tiger and Project Elephant. He called for stronger action on urban air pollution, enhanced monitoring and field infrastructure, better forest personnel welfare, and support for forest-based livelihoods, emphasizing the need for continued institutional strengthening.
Shri H.D. Devegowda (JD(S), Karnataka) highlighted problems in elephant corridors causing elephant deaths during food searches, and raised concerns about drinking water scarcity and unsafe water for human consumption, seeking intervention from the Prime Minister along with respective Ministers.
The proceedings of Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 5:47 PM to reconvene at 11:00 A.M on Tuesday, 10th March, 2026.
III. Events Outside The Parliament:
Shri Sambit Patra (BJP, Puri, Odisha) accused the INC and other Opposition parties of attempting to hold Parliament to ransom regarding the no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker, adding that the country is observing their actions.
Shri Anurag Singh Thakur (BJP, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh) stated that External Affairs Minister Shri S. Jaishankar has effectively explained the Government’s measures regarding the safety and security of Indians both at home and abroad amidst the current global situation. He further accused the Opposition and Shri Rahul Gandhi (LoP, INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh) of intentionally avoiding a debate on the no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla Ji.
Dr. Fauzia Khan (NCP-SCP, Maharashtra) stated that if the Leader of the Opposition is not permitted to speak, it raises serious questions regarding the nature of democracy within Parliament. She added that such a situation leaves the Opposition with no other recourse but to bring a no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker.
Shri Akhilesh Yadav (SP, Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh) stated that the US should not dictate from whom India purchases oil and called for a comprehensive discussion in Parliament regarding India’s foreign policy.
Shri Pralhad Joshi (Union Minister, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; BJP, Dharwad, Karnataka) stated that the details of discussion regarding the no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker are decided by the Business Advisory Committee (BAC). He clarified that the Speaker, while in the Chair, allows the motion to be moved and discussion to proceed, and questioned the logic of bringing an adjournment motion in the middle of a pending no-confidence motion, emphasizing that all parliamentary procedures must follow established rules
Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh) stated that the West Asia conflict could cause major economic losses for India, pointing to the decline in the stock market and potential fuel price increases. He demanded a detailed discussion in Parliament, alleging that the Government is avoiding a debate because questions may arise regarding Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s position and policies.
Shri Ram Gopal Yadav (SP, Uttar Pradesh) stated that the Israel–US attack on Iran has worsened the global situation, noting the subsequent fall in the Nifty 50 and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) Sensex. He called for a discussion in the Parliament on the matter, citing that a similar debate of sorts was held during the tenure of former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji following the US attack on Iraq.
Smt. Priyanka Chaturvedi (SS UBT, Maharashtra) stated that if the Government makes a statement on the situation in West Asia, it should also address the Opposition’s questions. She added that her party staged a walkout in the Parliament Session in Rajya Sabha as the Government did not allow for any questions following the External Affairs Minister’s statement.
Dr. John Brittas (CPI(M), Kerala) reacted to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s statement on the West Asia conflict, criticizing the Government and alleging that its “silence” on the situation has harmed India’s global standing.
Shri Pramod Tiwari (INC, Uttar Pradesh) questioned the Government over rising gas prices following the External Affairs Minister’s statement on West Asia, asking for an assurance that fuel prices will not increase. He further sought clarity on the safety of nearly one crore Indians in the conflict-affected region and the Government’s specific evacuation plan.
Shri Hibi Eden (INC, Ernakulam, Kerala) alleged that the Government has not taken adequate steps to bring back stranded Indians or ensure the safety of those living in West Asia, particularly in Middle Eastern countries. He demanded a formal discussion on the issue in Parliament on behalf of the INC.
Shri Piyush Vedprakash Goyal (Union Minister, Ministry of Commerce and Industry; BJP, Mumbai North, Maharashtra) accused the INC of avoiding a debate on the no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker despite having requested it. He stated the discussion was scheduled after due process, but the Opposition brought another motion to escape the debate, criticizing Shri Rahul Gandhi (LoP, INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh) for his unparliamentary actions.
Shri Kalyan Banerjee (AITC, Sreerampur, West Bengal) stated that Chief Minister Sushri Mamata Banerjee has already clarified the matter regarding protocol during the President’s visit. He questioned why the issue was raised publicly, adding that if the President felt aggrieved, she could have communicated directly with the Chief Minister.
Shri Damodar Agarwal (BJP, Bhilwara, Rajasthan) commented on West Bengal Chief Minister Sushri Mamata Banerjee’s conduct towards President Smt. Droupadi Murmu, stating it reflects fear and anxiety. He added that basic decorum must be maintained while interacting with the President and noted that the people of West Bengal are closely observing the matter.
Shri Tapir Gao (BJP, Arunachal East, Arunachal Pradesh) stated that people from the northeastern states face racial discrimination and insecurity inDelhi and other metropolitan cities. He noted the issue would be raised during Zero Hour and urged the Government of India to introduce legislation similar to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 to protect northeastern citizens.
Annexure I - Matters Raised Under Rule 377 In The Lok Sabha
Annexure II - Reports And Statements Presented In The Lok Sabha
Annexure III - Matters Raised With Permission In The Rajya Sabha
Annexure IV - Reports And Statements Presented In The Rajya Sabha
Annexure V - Members Who Participated In the Discussion On The Working Of The Ministry Of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the Rajya Sabha
Annexure VI - Special Mentions in The Rajya Sabha