The behaviour of Opposition leaders in India’s Parliament has reached an unprecedented low, marking a concerning departure from the standards expected in the nation’s highest democratic institution. Recent actions by Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, alongside their allies, have not only undermined the dignity of parliamentary discourse but have also raised questions about their commitment to democratic principles.
Rahul Gandhi, often seen as the face of the Opposition, has been criticized for his disruptive conduct and symbolic gestures, which many interpret as undermining the sanctity of the Parliament. Clothing choices and public behaviour may be personal, but when performed in a setting regarded as the “temple of democracy,” these actions take on national significance. Similarly, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s approach in the Rajya Sabha has drawn flak for contributing to a divisive and disruptive atmosphere.
Adding to this troubling trend, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s derogatory remarks against a woman member reflect a broader erosion of parliamentary etiquette among certain Opposition leaders. Such actions are not just personal lapses but attacks on the institution’s credibility.
The Opposition’s frequent claim that “Samvidhan Kathre Mein Hai” (the Constitution is in danger) contrasts sharply with their actions that degrade constitutional institutions. Live parliamentary proceedings allow citizens to witness firsthand the conduct of their elected representatives. The dissonance between the Opposition’s rhetoric and behaviour is becoming increasingly evident to voters.
Protests and dissent are vital in a democracy, but they must not replace constructive debate. The Opposition has repeatedly shirked its responsibility to engage in meaningful discussions on crucial national issues. Instead, it has resorted to daily theatrics, including mockery of the Prime Minister and industrialists like Gautam Adani. Such actions might grab headlines but do little to address the pressing concerns of the electorate.
The Opposition’s criticisms of Gautam Adani ring hollow when juxtaposed with their actions. Several Congress-ruled states have actively courted Adani’s investments, offering him lucrative opportunities in energy and infrastructure projects. This glaring contradiction underscores a lack of coherent strategy and reinforces perceptions of political opportunism.
Since their defeat in 2014, the Congress and its allies have fixated on linking Modi with industrialists like Adani and Ambani. Despite successive electoral defeats in 2019, 2024, and numerous state elections, this narrative has failed to resonate with the majority of voters. Instead of introspecting, the Opposition continues its adversarial approach, further alienating itself from ground realities.
In their desperation, Opposition leaders have allegedly courted foreign influence, raising concerns about national security. The BJP has highlighted the potential links between the Congress and international actors like George Soros, whose NGOs have been accused of destabilizing governments worldwide. The BJP has also demanded transparency regarding Rahul Gandhi’s alleged secret memorandum with China’s Communist Party, challenging the Congress to allow a parliamentary debate on these matters.
The Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairperson have rightly reprimanded disruptive members, emphasizing the need to uphold parliamentary dignity. As the winter session approaches its end, the BJP-led NDA government appears determined to push through its legislative agenda, with or without the Opposition’s cooperation.
The average Indian voter is increasingly disillusioned with the Opposition’s antics. While dissent is the lifeblood of democracy, it must be constructive, respectful, and grounded in genuine concern for national welfare. The Opposition’s current strategy of obstruction and dramatics risks further eroding its relevance in India’s political landscape.
As India’s democratic institutions face challenges from within, both the ruling party and the Opposition must introspect. While the BJP must ensure it remains inclusive and transparent, the Opposition must rise above theatrics and engage in meaningful discourse. The nation’s voters deserve leaders who prioritize progress over pettiness, solutions over slogans, and unity over division.
