Photo: X/yadavakhilesh
New Delhi, Proceedings in both Houses of Parliament were heavily disrupted on Monday as Opposition members staged protests demanding a detailed discussion on the ongoing war in West Asia. The disruption led to the Lok Sabha being adjourned for the day without conducting significant legislative business.
| Written by Anshika Chauhan |
The only substantive proceedings during the day were statements made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha regarding the government’s response to the conflict in West Asia and its impact on Indian nationals in the region.
Government outlines approach to West Asia crisis
In his statement, Mr. Jaishankar informed Parliament about the Centre’s efforts to rescue and assist Indian citizens stranded in Gulf countries due to the escalating conflict. He also reassured the House about India’s energy security and outlined the government’s broader diplomatic strategy.
The External Affairs Minister said India’s approach to the crisis is guided by three key factors: ensuring the safety of Indian nationals abroad, safeguarding national energy security, and maintaining diplomatic engagement with all relevant parties in the region.
Opposition protests disrupt proceedings
Despite the minister’s statement, Opposition MPs continued to protest, demanding a full-fledged debate on the West Asia situation. Members entered the Well of the House carrying placards and raised slogans, leading to repeated disruptions.
As protests intensified, the Lok Sabha was adjourned and later reconvened briefly before being adjourned for the remainder of the day.
Government criticizes Opposition conduct
Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha and Union Minister J. P. Nadda criticized the Opposition’s conduct, accusing them of “causing anarchy” and engaging in what he termed “hooliganism” inside Parliament.
Similarly, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated in the Lok Sabha that the government was willing to debate any issue but condemned the disruptions that prevented normal functioning of the House.
Motion seeking removal of Speaker not taken up
Amid the disruptions, the Lok Sabha also failed to take up a scheduled discussion on a motion seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla.
The resolution had been admitted and listed in the name of Congress MPs Mohammad Jawed, K. Suresh and Mallu Ravi. The motion reportedly carried the signatures of 118 Opposition members.
Rajya Sabha adjourned
The Rajya Sabha also witnessed disruptions over the same issue and was adjourned for the day. The Upper House will reconvene on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, to continue the Budget Session.
The continuing standoff between the government and the Opposition over the West Asia crisis indicates that parliamentary proceedings may remain contentious in the coming days.
