‘LoP not allowed to speak for first time in history’: Rahul Gandhi on Lok Sabha row

New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday claimed that, for the first time in parliamentary history, a Leader of the Opposition was not permitted to speak in the Lok Sabha. His remarks referred to repeated disruptions during the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address in the recently concluded first half of the Budget session.

Speaking at a Kisan Mahachaupal organised by the Indian National Congress in Bhopal against the United States–India trade deal, Rahul Gandhi said he was interrupted multiple times when he attempted to speak about former Army chief MM Naravane’s book and issues concerning farmers.

He further criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that the US trade deal was concluded without consultation with cabinet members. Gandhi claimed the Prime Minister acted under pressure and alleged that no action was taken for months before a sudden decision was made to proceed with the agreement.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the government over the trade deal, stating that agreements should be concluded between equal partners and alleging that India had been pressured with tariff threats.

Responding to the remarks, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav defended the state government’s record on farmers. He said the government works for farmers year-round and criticised the Congress for its historical record on irrigation expansion in the state, alleging that previous Congress administrations failed to adequately increase irrigated land.

The exchange highlights intensifying political tensions ahead of upcoming electoral contests, with the trade deal and parliamentary conduct emerging as key flashpoints between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress.