• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

The opposition on Monday shifted its strategy in Parliament, shelving its earlier plan to push for the impeachment of Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and instead focusing on the ongoing crisis in West Asia and its potential economic and humanitarian impact on India.

The second half of the Budget Session began with opposition MPs raising slogans and displaying placards over the situation in the Middle East, highlighting concerns about rising oil prices and Indian nationals stranded in Iran. The protests took place as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed Parliament on the evolving situation.

ALSO READ: Iran War: How Much Is US Spending Daily? Shocking Figure May Push Trump To Seek Congress Funds

Repeated disruptions led to multiple adjournments in the Lok Sabha after the opposition demanded a detailed discussion on the conflict and its implications. However, the government did not agree to a debate in the lower house, though Jaishankar addressed the matter in the Rajya Sabha. The stalemate continued until the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day at 3 pm.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi said the developments in West Asia could significantly affect India’s economy. He stressed the need for a parliamentary discussion on rising oil prices, market volatility and the safety of Indian citizens in the conflict-hit region.

The government responded sharply, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal criticising Gandhi and accusing the opposition of avoiding debate after initially moving a no-confidence motion against the Speaker. Former minister Anurag Thakur also said the opposition had backed away from its earlier demand.

Sources said the opposition’s tactical shift followed a meeting of leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, earlier in the day. The leaders reportedly decided that the ongoing war involving Iran, the United States and Israel, along with its global consequences, should be the immediate focus.

ALSO READ: Ram Charan’s Rai Rai Raa Raa From Peddi Sparks Oscar-Winning Naatu Naatu Comparisons

Concerns over rising crude oil prices and possible supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz have also raised fears of fuel shortages and economic strain in India. Meanwhile, the government has begun repatriating Indian nationals from the region, with officials stating that over 52,000 people have already returned since March 1.

According to sources, the issue of the no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla could resurface later during the session, with a debate expected if the government decides to take it up in Parliament.


Also In News