New Delhi:
The Rajya Sabha, India’s upper chamber, opened for a short yet heated session on Tuesday morning before being put on hold until 2 p.m. The delay followed a mounting protest by opposition MPs over the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter lists.
The break, which came only twenty minutes into the proceedings, highlighted how the Winter Session—now on its second day—has become mired in a deadlock, with calls to debate alleged voter disenfranchisement eclipsing regular legislative work.
Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan, who stepped into the role last September, called the house to order at 11 a.m., but was met almost immediately with chants from the opposition benches.
Led by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and allies from the INDIA coalition—including the Trinamool Congress, DMK, and AAP—members marched into the chamber carrying placards that read “Vote Chor, Gaddi Chod (Vote Thief, Quit the Throne)”.
They demanded an urgent discussion under Rule 267 on the SIR process, which is in effect across 12 states and union territories ahead of the 2026 state elections. Proponents argue it has resulted in more than 30 deaths among booth level officers (BLOs) and the wrongful removal of millions of names, especially from marginalised communities.
Kharge cited unresolved notices from Monday, accusing the government of “saving itself at democracy’s expense”.
“We submitted detailed notices yesterday – names, subjects, everything – but they were ignored. Thirty lives lost, families shattered, and you have ignored it all,” he said.
From the Treasury side, Leader of House J.P. Nadda urged everyone to stay calm, assuring that consultations would take place. “The Chair will decide; let’s not derail the session. Multiple bills are waiting,” he reminded the house.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju replied with a blend of plea and provocation: “You’re fixated on one issue while the nation faces floods, jobs, and security. Elections you lose, anger you vent here – focus on governance, not grandstanding.”
His comment sparked sharp retorts, with Trinamool Congress’ Derek O’Brien countering, “We’re fighting for votes, not vengeance; your delays are the real drama.”
Chairman Radhakrishnan, staying his customary calm, called for order repeatedly, warning against further disturbances. Meanwhile, routine business proceeded amid the uproar and chanting. The chairman’s plea for decorum persisted, but the noise eventually forced the adjournment to 2 p.m.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
