PM Modi’s Maha Kumbh Comments in Lok Sabha: Speaker Enforces Rule 372, Rahul Gandhi Critiques ‘New India’
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On March 18, PM Modi hailed Maha Kumbh 2025 as a significant national awakening, attributing its success to the people's contributions. This led to Opposition protests and a critical remark from LoP Rahul Gandhi, who emphasized the need for a voice in national affairs.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi celebrates Maha Kumbh 2025 as a national milestone.
- Opposition protests overshadow the Prime Minister’s comments.
- Speaker Om Birla enforces parliamentary rules to maintain order.
- Rahul Gandhi expresses disappointment over denied speaking opportunity.
- Calls for acknowledgment of the tragic stampede during the event.
New Delhi, March 18 (NationPress) As Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday referred to the Maha Kumbh 2025 as a moment of ‘awakening’ for the nation and acknowledged its success due to the collective efforts of citizens, this incited protests from the Opposition along with a ‘new India’ remark from Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi. Following this, the House was adjourned for the day.
While addressing the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, PM Modi emphasized that the religious gathering in Prayagraj marked a significant milestone, showcasing the country’s capabilities to the global community.
“On behalf of the House, I extend my congratulations to everyone who played a vital role in organizing such a grand event and to all citizens who participated in the holy dip,” he remarked.
PM Modi also proposed that India should initiate celebrations of river festivals to conserve and rejuvenate water bodies.
As the Prime Minister highlighted the accomplishments of the Maha Kumbh, the House erupted in chaos as Opposition members protested, demanding transparency regarding the stampede tragedy.
In response to the uproar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla invoked Rule 372 from the parliamentary rules, instructing members to avoid unnecessary disturbances.
“Rule 372 explicitly states that the Prime Minister or any minister can deliver statements in the House without fielding questions,” Om Birla stated, urging members to ‘educate’ themselves on the rules before disrupting proceedings.
The House was adjourned for the day at approximately 2 pm thereafter.
Later, speaking to the media outside Parliament, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi expressed his desire to support the Prime Minister regarding the achievements of the Maha Kumbh, but claimed he was denied permission to do so.
“The Maha Kumbh symbolizes our rich culture and heritage. I intended to support PM on this,” he informed reporters.
“This is New India,” he remarked, sharply criticizing the NDA government, emphasizing that the Leader of Opposition should have a voice on issues of national significance.
He further condemned PM Modi for not addressing the Maha Kumbh tragedy in Prayagraj, which led to the deaths of 30 devotees, and for failing to pay tribute to them during his address.
