Delhi, 8 August (HS): Parliamentary proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on Friday, were once again marred by sustained opposition protests, primarily centered on demands for a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar. The impasse, now in its fifteenth consecutive day, led to repeated adjournments in both Houses, illustrating continued political deadlock as the legislative monsoon session nears its end.

Lok Sabha proceedings began with Speaker Om Birla commemorating the passing of former MP Satya Pal Malik and seeking a moment of silence. Despite attempts to progress with listed legislative business—including the consideration of the National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, potential amendments to the National Anti-Doping Act, 2022, and the introduction of the Indian Ports Bill, 2025—persistent protests stalled substantive debate.

In the Rajya Sabha, Deputy Chairman Harivansh opened the session with tributes marking the anniversary of the Quit India Movement, and subsequently criticized the frequent use of adjournment motions, implying they serve to create disorder. Twenty adjournment notices were filed under Rule 267 but were not admitted, further inflaming opposition members. Protesters demanded immediate debate on the SIR exercise in Bihar, while the chair called for order and cooperation.

The unrest extended beyond Parliament’s walls, with members of the INDIA opposition bloc staging demonstrations outside, raising concerns over the SIR process, the status of the Bengali language, and recent US tariffs on India. Congress MP Hibi Eden sought an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha to address the alleged assault on religious figures in Odisha by Bajrang Dal members.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju lamented persistent disruptions, referencing a 1997 Rajya Sabha resolution advocating for more effective parliamentary functioning. Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers J.P. Nadda addressed the House regarding fertilizer supply and the government’s vow to prevent smuggling and hoarding, but was overshadowed by the noise of protest.

The continuing stalemate reflects ongoing tensions between the government and the opposition, with MPs such as Samajwadi Party's Abu Azmi and Congress's Pramod Tiwari openly expressing frustration over the government’s refusal to allow discussion on purported electoral fraud and calling for greater accountability from the Election Commission.

Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced protests; the Rajya Sabha was adjourned until August 11 at 11 a.m., while the Lok Sabha was adjourned until 3 p.m. after a day riddled with disorder.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar