New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha was embroiled in a fiery ‘slogan war’ on Thursday as opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) demanded a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the ongoing Manipur issue. In a show of solidarity, members of the ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ (INDIA), a bloc comprising 26 opposition parties, wore black attire to protest the perceived silence of the Prime Minister on the matter.
The ‘slogan war’ erupted as opposition MPs raised their voices demanding accountability and answers from the government on the situation in Manipur, where ethnic clashes have been persistent since the first week of May. The opposition’s frustration with the government’s alleged lack of response to the situation has grown, leading to the dramatic display of protest in the Rajya Sabha.
In response, members from the ruling party, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), launched a counter-chant supporting the Prime Minister, creating a charged atmosphere within the parliamentary chamber.
Speaking to the media outside the House, the External Affairs Minister, Jaishankar, criticized the opposition’s behavior, accusing them of being unwilling to listen to the government’s perspective. He expressed disappointment that the opposition seemed more interested in criticizing the country’s achievements rather than engaging in constructive dialogue.
“Foreign policy is an area where we usually work together. We may debate within the country, but outside the country, we should display a united front. The opposition’s conduct today should be looked into; when it comes to national interest, politics should be set aside, and it should be appreciated,” the minister emphasized.
The ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ (INDIA), consisting of major opposition parties, including the Congress, has united with the aim of countering the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by PM Modi’s BJP, and preventing it from securing a third consecutive term in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The opposition’s decision to don black attire as a mark of protest against the government’s perceived inaction in Manipur highlights the gravity of the issue. Despite the government’s stance that it is open to a discussion on the matter, the opposition has chosen to escalate the issue in the parliamentary forum.
The Manipur issue has become a significant point of contention, with the opposition seeking clear and comprehensive answers from the Prime Minister himself. As the situation in Manipur continues to be a matter of concern for the nation, both the government and the opposition must find common ground to address the issue effectively.
In the spirit of democracy and national interest, it is imperative that constructive dialogue prevails, allowing for an inclusive and transparent approach to resolving pressing matters affecting the country. The ‘slogan war’ in the Rajya Sabha serves as a reminder of the responsibility vested in elected representatives to uphold the principles of democracy while putting the interests of the people at the forefront.
