Leader of Opposition should be allowed to speak in House but not given permission in ‘new India’, says Rahul Gandhi

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi during the Budget session of Parliament, in New Delhi, on March 18, 2025.
| Photo Credit: PTI

As the Lok Sabha was briefly adjourned amid Opposition protests after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement on the Mahakumbh, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday (March 18, 2025) said the LoP should be allowed to speak according to the democratic structure but is not given permission in “new India”.

Mr. Gandhi told reporters outside Parliament that he also wanted to speak in the House on the issue and pointed out at that PM Modi should have paid homage to those who lost their lives in the January 29 stampede at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj.

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The Lok Sabha was briefly adjourned till 1 pm on Tuesday (March 18, 2025) following protests by opposition members over Modi’s remarks on the success of the Mahakumbh, which was held from January 13 to February 26.

Many Opposition members were on their feet protesting after the Prime Minister spoke.

“I wanted to support what he was saying. Kumbh is our tradition, history and culture. There was also a complaint that he did not pay homage to those who lost their lives (in the stampede in the Mahakumbh),” Mr. Gandhi said.

“The other thing I wanted to say is that the youth that went to the Kumbh need another thing from the PM, they need employment. The prime minister should speak on employment,” the Congress leader said.

Asked if he was not allowed to speak, Mr. Gandhi said, “We are not allowed to speak. According to the democratic structure, the LoP should be permitted to speak, but is not given permission, but this is new India.”

Congress’ Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said the Opposition should have been allowed to speak in the House.

“Opposition also has its sentiments on it and they should not have had any objection to them airing their views,” she said.

Describing the Mahakumbh as an important milestone, Mr. Modi told the Lok Sabha that the event was a befitting response to those who questioned India’s capability to organise such a large congregation.

He said the entire world witnessed the grandeur of India during the Mahakumbh and the religious gathering reflected the spirit of rising India.