NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharply criticized the Opposition on Monday, accusing them of repeatedly disrupting parliamentary proceedings and hindering meaningful debates. He pointed out that those who have been "repeatedly rejected by the people" are attempting to control the House through chaos.
Ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament, PM Modi emphasized the special significance of this session, as it marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption of India's Constitution. "This session is unique in many ways, with the most significant being the 75th year of our Constitution. We will begin this momentous occasion tomorrow in the new Parliament building," he said.
Highlighting the efforts of the Constitution's framers, the Prime Minister acknowledged their hard work in creating a remarkable document that shaped India's democratic institutions. "One of the key elements of our Constitution is Parliament and its members," he added.
PM Modi also expressed concern over the obstructionist tactics of the Opposition, which he believes prevent new Members of Parliament (MPs) from presenting their fresh perspectives. "Those who have been rejected by the electorate repeatedly try to control Parliament by disrupting its proceedings. While they fail, their actions are being watched by the people. The most troubling part is that new MPs, who bring fresh ideas, are not allowed to speak due to these disruptions," he said.
Calling for a more productive environment, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of intergenerational learning in democracy. "Every generation has the responsibility to train the next. Unfortunately, those rejected by the people are blocking the discussions in Parliament," he said, adding that these individuals neither understand the people's aspirations nor live up to their expectations.
Reflecting on India's growing global influence, PM Modi remarked, "The world looks at India with hope. At such a critical juncture, the discussions we have in Parliament can strengthen India’s standing globally. This is a rare opportunity, and it is our responsibility to honor the trust voters have placed in our democracy and Constitution."
He urged all MPs to engage in meaningful debates and make up for lost time. "We must send a message that the dedication of voters to democracy and parliamentary proceedings is being respected by their representatives," he said.
In conclusion, PM Modi expressed his hope for a productive Winter Session, encouraging all MPs to approach it with passion and enthusiasm. "The people of India are committed to democracy, and we must ensure their faith in the Constitution and parliamentary system is upheld through constructive discussions," he added.
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