How Did Raghav Chadha’s Poetic Welcome to New RS Chairman Captivate All?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Raghav Chadha's poetic welcome signifies a moment of unity.
- C. P. Radhakrishnan's election connects to India's historical legacy.
- Chadha emphasized the importance of inclusivity in governance.
- The response from members indicates a desire for collaboration.
- Radhakrishnan's commitment to impartiality is crucial for the House's functioning.
New Delhi, Dec 1 (NationPress) In an extraordinary display of poetic finesse that crossed party boundaries, Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha warmly welcomed the newly elected Rajya Sabha Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan, leaving members of the Upper House visibly touched. During the customary motion of thanks introduced by Leader of the House Jagat Prakash Nadda, the young MP from Punjab likened Radhakrishnan’s election to “the sun breaking through a lengthy darkness, a storm-ridden vessel finally spotting land, and the initial drops of rain following an unrelenting heatwave.”
Chadha painted a “beautiful cycle of history,” noting that the new Chairman shares his full name with Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s inaugural Vice-President and the first Chairman of the Rajya Sabha in 1952. “Seventy-three years later, fate has delivered another Radhakrishnan to this esteemed position,” he pointed out, adding that even those with opposing political beliefs refer to the new presiding officer as an “Ajatashatru” — one without enemies.
The AAP leader expressed optimism that Chairman Radhakrishnan would uphold the inclusive legacy of his distinguished predecessor. “This House ought to feel like a family, not a battleground. We aspire for the youngest voices and newest members to receive ample opportunities to express themselves and develop under your stewardship,” Chadha remarked, garnering applause from both the treasury and opposition benches.
In a concluding couplet that elicited extended applause, he stated, “Some individuals are recognized because of the positions they occupy; others bestow immortality and honor to those positions. We are confident, Sir, that your term will belong to the latter.”
Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and numerous senior members, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, were seen nodding in agreement. Even BJP members, who generally refrain from applauding opposition speeches, participated in the desk-thumping.
In response, Chairman Radhakrishnan expressed gratitude to Chadha for his “heartwarming words” and pledged to lead the House with impartiality, dignity, and warmth. “I might not match the poetic brilliance of the member from Punjab,” he quipped with a smile, “but I will certainly endeavor to meet the trust he has placed in me.”
This exchange offered a brief respite of warmth on a day otherwise overshadowed by protests and adjournments within both Houses of Parliament.