Why Was the Rajya Sabha Adjourned Until 2 PM Amid Opposition Protests?

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Why Was the Rajya Sabha Adjourned Until 2 PM Amid Opposition Protests?

Synopsis

Tensions erupted in the Rajya Sabha on July 23, leading to an early adjournment. With Opposition members protesting loudly, the Question Hour was disrupted, raising significant concerns about governmental accountability. This chaotic atmosphere reflects the ongoing struggles within India's parliamentary proceedings.

Key Takeaways

  • Rajya Sabha adjourned due to Opposition protests.
  • Question Hour disrupted by sloganeering.
  • Demands linked to Vice President's resignation.
  • Concerns over electoral roll revisions in Bihar.
  • Political tensions escalating in the Monsoon Session.

New Delhi, July 23 (NationPress) The Rajya Sabha experienced another chaotic session on Wednesday as relentless sloganeering and demonstrations from Opposition members led to an early suspension of proceedings until 2 p.m. This disruption occurred during the Question Hour, a time typically dedicated for members to hold the government accountable.

Presiding over the session, Ghanshyam Tiwari initiated by calling member Santosh Kumar P. to present his question. However, the chamber rapidly devolved into disorder as Opposition MPs chanted slogans, making it impossible for proceedings to continue.

The specific nature of their demands was unclear amid the uproar, but sources suggest that the protests were related to the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and the controversial Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.

Tiwari made several appeals for members to maintain decorum in the House, emphasizing that “This is Question Hour,” but his requests went unheeded. He attempted to call two more members for questioning, yet the uproar persisted. With no signs of a resolution, the Chair adjourned the House until 2 p.m.

Earlier, Deputy Chairman Harivansh dismissed 12 adjournment notices under Rule 267, including one that sought a dialogue regarding Dhankhar’s resignation. This led to sloganeering from MPs of various Opposition parties, many of whom were observed standing and chanting slogans.

The Vice President, who also acts as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, resigned due to health concerns, a decision that has ignited political speculation and calls for discussion.

The Opposition’s demonstrations also focused on the Election Commission’s SIR exercise in Bihar, which they claim may disenfranchise voters. Members of the INDIA bloc, including Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, protested outside Parliament, labeling the revision as a “death of democracy.”

The Monsoon Session has thus far been characterized by frequent adjournments and confrontations, with both Houses struggling to carry out legislative business. As political tensions escalate, the government faces increasing pressure to respond to the Opposition’s grievances and restore parliamentary order.

The Rajya Sabha is set to reconvene at 2 p.m., though further disruptions are anticipated given the ongoing tensions.

Point of View

It is crucial to note that the recent turmoil in the Rajya Sabha reflects a significant crisis in parliamentary decorum. The persistent disruptions hinder the legislative process and undermine democratic principles. All stakeholders must prioritize dialogue and collaboration to ensure that the voices of the Opposition are heard while maintaining the integrity of parliamentary proceedings.
NationPress
23/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What led to the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha?
The Rajya Sabha was adjourned due to continuous protests and sloganeering by Opposition members during the Question Hour, which is meant for accountability inquiries.
What are the main issues raised by the Opposition?
The Opposition's protests primarily revolved around the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and the contentious Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar.
What is the significance of the Question Hour?
The Question Hour is a crucial time in Parliament reserved for members to question the government and seek accountability on various issues.
What actions were taken by the Deputy Chairman?
Deputy Chairman Harivansh rejected 12 adjournment notices, including one that sought discussion on Dhankhar’s resignation, which contributed to the uproar.
What is the broader impact of these disruptions?
The ongoing disruptions during the Monsoon Session of Parliament indicate rising tensions in Indian politics and pose challenges to effective governance and legislative business.