Rahul Gandhi Calls for Greater Opposition Voice in Parliament

Dated 26th June 2024

By B R Abdul Wajid

Chief Political Editor

New Delhi | Today, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi, addressed the parliament and congratulated the Speaker on his successful re-election.

“Speaker Sir, I would like to congratulate you for being elected for the second time,” Rahul Gandhi said. “On behalf of the entire opposition and the INDIA Alliance, I extend my congratulations.”

He emphasized the importance of the parliament as the voice of India’s people, acknowledging the Speaker’s role as the final arbitrator of that voice. Rahul Gandhi pointed out that while the government holds political power, the Opposition represents the voice of India’s youth and a significant portion of the population, more so than in the past.

“The Opposition would like to assist you in doing your work, and we want the House to function often and well,” he stated. Highlighting the need for trust and cooperation, he insisted that the voice of the Opposition must be heard in the House.

Rahul Gandhi expressed confidence in the Speaker’s ability to ensure that the Opposition is allowed to represent the people’s voice. He argued that the measure of the House’s efficiency is not merely in its smooth functioning but in how much of India’s voice is allowed to be heard.

“The idea that you can run the House efficiently by silencing the voice of the Opposition is non-democratic,” he said. “This election has shown that the people of India expect the Opposition to defend the country’s Constitution.”

He concluded by expressing his hope that the Speaker would fulfill his duty by allowing the Opposition to speak and represent the people of India. “I once again congratulate you, Speaker Sir, and all the members of the House who have won their elections,” he added.