New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) On Monday, members of the INDIA bloc organized a protest in the Parliament Complex, accusing the Central Government of exhibiting a concerning "silence" regarding the escalating conflict in West Asia. They are demanding a more transparent stance from the government on the ongoing crisis.

Opposition parties have raised questions about what they perceive as the government’s inaction on the conflict. They are urging the Centre to adopt a “firm stance” and to implement swift measures to facilitate the safe return of Indian nationals stranded in regions impacted by the unrest.

Additionally, lawmakers have called for an explanation from the government regarding its plans to tackle the potential energy crisis that could arise from the unstable situation in West Asia.

Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha, sharing the government’s perspective on the situation. He discussed concerns about the safety and evacuation of Indian citizens residing in Gulf countries and the implications for India’s energy security.

Nevertheless, the INDIA bloc expressed dissatisfaction with the minister’s remarks. Members from various parties gathered outside the Parliament building for a demonstration, displaying placards that read “India needs leadership - not silence”.

Notable leaders participating in the protest included Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Akhilesh Yadav.

As Parliament reconvenes for the second phase of the Budget session, Kharge pointed out that the US-Israel war with Iran is now affecting the region directly. He stressed the need for a comprehensive discussion on the current geopolitical crisis.

Kharge stated, “A one-sided statement from the EAM is insufficient. We must engage the nation comprehensively. The government needs to present a detailed contingency plan for energy security, support our traders, diversify supply chains for exports, and alleviate the burden of rising prices on our citizens.”

Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav echoed similar sentiments on social media, asserting that the Parliament's priorities should shift in response to the ongoing crisis.

He articulated that “the previous session’s focus was different, and in light of the current wartime conditions, our priorities should include: India’s stance on the war, foreign policy concerns, safeguarding Indian citizens in war zones, and ensuring a steady supply of essential goods amid rising prices.”

Earlier, K.C. Venugopal, Congress General Secretary, criticized the government’s response on social media, emphasizing that ordinary Indians will suffer due to increasing energy costs, as seen with the recent hike in LPG cylinder prices.

He remarked, “India urgently requires decisive leadership to articulate a clear stance against this warmongering and to ensure the safety of our citizens.”

In discussions with reporters, Venugopal reiterated the opposition’s demand for a parliamentary debate on the issue, cautioning that India could face serious repercussions from the evolving situation.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also called for an extensive parliamentary debate, expressing concerns about energy security and rising fuel prices. He pointed out that “oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel, and gas supplies from Qatar have halted, impacting domestic prices.”

Tharoor added that while India may seek alternative sources, the current situation is already influencing domestic pricing structures.

Congress MP Manickam Tagore accused the government of remaining silent despite the critical nature of the unfolding circumstances.

Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav noted that the opposition traditionally has the right to seek clarifications in Parliament, lamenting that this government is often unresponsive to such inquiries.