New Delhi, March 9: The proceedings of Parliament have been adjourned until 11 AM on March 10 following uproar from opposition members in the Lok Sabha. Opposition MPs accused the central government of maintaining ‘silence’ regarding the escalating tensions in West Asia and staged protests within the Parliament premises.
The opposition has demanded immediate action to ensure the safe return of Indians stranded in the affected countries. Additionally, they have called on the government to clarify its plans to address the potential energy crisis that may arise due to the instability in West Asia.
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha, outlining the government’s stance on the situation. He discussed concerns regarding the safety of Indian citizens residing in Gulf countries and the implications for India‘s energy security. However, opposition MPs expressed dissatisfaction with the minister’s statements.
Notable leaders participating in the protests included Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav.
BJP MP Anurag Thakur stated that the External Affairs Minister had provided a detailed account of the measures taken for Indians both domestically and abroad, covering aspects from energy security to public welfare. He criticized the opposition for lacking direction and being unprepared to discuss pending motions against the Speaker.
Union Minister Giriraj Singh remarked that such behavior in the House was unexpected, especially under the leadership of the opposition. He emphasized that disrupting the proceedings undermines the rights of the public.
BJP MP Sambit Patra noted that the entire nation was watching the proceedings through television and social media, highlighting how the opposition, particularly the Congress party, was undermining the decorum of the House.
Akhilesh Yadav urged the government to clearly articulate its stance on the conflict and its implications, pointing out that many Indians, including tourists, are stranded in the region. He raised concerns about the safety of journalists who accompanied the Prime Minister, suggesting they now resemble war correspondents.
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