Those rejected by people trying to control Parliament: PM Modi slams Opposition

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday targeted the Opposition ahead of the start of Winter Session saying those “rejected by people 80, 90 times” are attempting to control the Parliament through “disruptive tactics” for political gains.

In his address to the media ahead of the session, Modi said disruptors are often punished by voters when the time comes. It is essential for Parliament to engage in healthy discussions where as many people, including new faces, contribute.

Modi's remarks came days after the BJP-led coalition’s spectacular victory in Maharashtra on Saturday. However, the BJP could not win Jharkhand where the JMM-led I.N.D.I.A. bloc returned power with improved numbers.

“Unfortunately, some individuals rejected by the people are continuously attempting to control Parliament through disruptive tactics for their political gains. Their primary goal of halting parliamentary proceedings rarely succeeds, and the people take note of their actions, often punishing them when the time comes,” he said.

He said the “most troubling aspect” is that such acts by the Opposition “stifles” the rights of new MPs from all parties, who bring fresh ideas and energy. These lawmakers are often denied opportunities to speak in the House, he said.

“...those who have been repeatedly rejected by the people – 80, 90 times – neither allow discussions in Parliament nor respect democratic principles or the aspirations of the people. They don’t realise their responsibility towards the people. As a result, they consistently fail to meet public expectations, leading to repeated rejection by the electorate,” he said.

Without taking names of any state, Modi said people have had opportunities in their respective states to express their thoughts, views, and expectations after the Lok Sabha elections and the results of Assembly elections further strengthened the outcomes of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, broadening the support base and increasing trust in democratic processes.

In democracy, he said, it is imperative to respect the sentiments of the people and work tirelessly to meet their hopes and expectations and that he has repeatedly urged the Opposition to act very responsibly.

He said some Opposition MPs act responsibly as they also desire smooth functioning of the House. “However, those rejected by the people suppress even their colleagues’ voices, disrespect their feelings, and undermine the spirit of democracy,” he claimed.

Modi said new MPs cutting across party lines should get opportunities, as they bring fresh ideas and innovative visions to advance the country. He said the message from the Parliament should reflect the voters' dedication to democracy, their commitment to the Constitution, and their trust in parliamentary practices.

“We, as their representatives, must live up to these sentiments. It is time to reflect on the time we have lost so far and resolve to compensate by thoroughly debating various issues in the House. Future generations will read and draw inspiration from these discussions. I hope this session will be highly productive, enhance the prestige of the Constitution’s 75th year, strengthen Bharat’s global stature, provide opportunities to new MPs, and welcome new ideas,” he added.