Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has asserted that frequent disruptions in Parliament ultimately harm the Opposition more than the government, as they miss crucial opportunities to question ministers and hold the government accountable. Speaking at the Sansad Ratna Awards ceremony, Rijiju said smooth functioning of the House enables tough scrutiny, but repeated adjournments let bureaucrats and ministers avoid facing hard questions.
He criticised those who stall parliamentary proceedings, noting that while they may think they are challenging the government, they are in fact weakening their own democratic function. Rijiju emphasized that accountability is central to a functioning democracy and Parliament remains the primary platform for that purpose.
Reflecting on his political career, Rijiju acknowledged that political rivalry is natural, but it should not be equated with enmity. Quoting Winston Churchill, he highlighted the importance of respecting one’s political opponents.
He also drew attention to the challenging role of Indian MPs, who represent far more people and deal more directly with citizens’ issues than their counterparts in developed nations. Rijiju lamented the rise of media and social media incentives that often reward disruptions over meaningful debate, calling for a shift back to parliamentary decorum and substance.
Congratulating the award winners, he urged all parties to recognize and celebrate good parliamentary work, regardless of political affiliation. Meanwhile, Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes, also spoke at the event and criticized sections of the Opposition for allegedly damaging India’s global image, despite professing to uphold Ambedkar’s values.
Rijiju’s remarks come amid continued Opposition protests in the ongoing monsoon session, which have led to repeated adjournments, delaying key legislative business including debates on Operation Sindoor and the Bihar voter list revision.