On the opening day of the Monsoon Session, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar made a fervent appeal for calm and cooperation, urging both ruling and opposition members to embrace dialogue over discord, even as the Upper House witnessed disruptions over the Opposition’s demand for a debate on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
Amid noisy scenes in the House, Dhankhar reminded members of India’s deep-rooted tradition in discourse and deliberation. “A thriving democracy cannot sustain constant acrimony,” he said, stressing that internal strife only strengthens the country’s adversaries. “Dialogue and discussion, not conflict, are the way forward.”
Calling for mutual respect and civility in political engagement, he added, “I urge all political parties to avoid unbecoming language or personal attacks. Let this Monsoon Session be marked by productivity and meaningful debate.”
The session saw early turbulence as the Opposition pressed for an immediate discussion on Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack under Rule 267. Congress President and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticised the government for not keeping the Opposition informed, despite receiving their full support during the operation. He also pointed to intelligence lapses and unresolved accountability, citing statements by the J&K Lieutenant Governor and past remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Leader of the House JP Nadda responded by reiterating the government’s willingness to hold a comprehensive debate on both issues, adding that the matter had already been agreed upon in the Business Advisory Committee meeting.
“This kind of military operation has never taken place since Independence. The government is prepared to discuss everything,” Nadda said.
Despite Nadda’s assurances, the Rajya Sabha faced continued interruptions, while the Lok Sabha was briefly adjourned amid similar protests.
With high-stakes discussions on national security, economic issues, and several key bills on the agenda, the Monsoon Session is expected to be politically charged.
