The Monsoon Session of Parliament witnessed fresh political confrontation on Thursday as members of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Opposition INDIA bloc staged parallel protests outside Parliament, triggering a tense face-off that reflected the deepening political divide over the alleged NEET paper leak and recent demonstrations led by the Opposition.

The protests unfolded at the Makar Dwar entrance of the Parliament complex, where leaders from both sides raised slogans against each other while security personnel maintained a tight vigil to prevent any escalation. The confrontation outside Parliament was mirrored inside both Houses, where continuous disruptions led to repeated adjournments of proceedings.

Opposition Targets Government

Leaders of the INDIA bloc, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, participated in the protest demanding accountability from the Centre over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.

The Opposition reiterated its demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging that the government had failed to address concerns surrounding the examination process and the alleged paper leak. Opposition MPs raised slogans against the government while accusing it of remaining silent on issues affecting students across the country.

The protest is part of the Opposition's continuing campaign to highlight examination-related controversies during the ongoing Parliament session.

NDA Launches Counter Protest

The ruling NDA also organised a demonstration outside Parliament in response to the Opposition's recent protest near the Prime Minister's official residence on July 21.

NDA MPs accused the Congress of attempting to politicise student issues and criticised the Opposition's decision to stage protests close to the Prime Minister's residence. The ruling alliance maintained that Parliament should function without disruption and urged the Opposition to participate in debates inside the House rather than resorting to demonstrations.

As both groups gathered at the same location, slogan-shouting intensified, creating a charged atmosphere outside the Parliament complex.

Security Steps In

One of the key moments during the protest came when Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra walked towards the area where NDA MPs were protesting while raising slogans against the government.

Security personnel immediately intervened and formed a barrier between the two groups, preventing any direct confrontation. The situation remained under control, although both sides continued raising slogans against each other.

Heavy security deployment remained in place throughout the demonstrations to ensure that the protests did not disrupt movement within the Parliament complex.

Repeated House Disruptions

The political confrontation outside Parliament was accompanied by repeated disruptions inside both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

Proceedings in the Lok Sabha were initially adjourned until 2 pm amid persistent sloganeering by Opposition members. When the House reconvened, disruptions continued, prompting the Chair to adjourn proceedings for the day until Friday morning.

The Rajya Sabha also witnessed repeated interruptions. The Upper House was first adjourned until the afternoon due to continuous protests. After proceedings resumed, members again entered the Well of the House, forcing another adjournment until the next day.

The repeated disruptions meant that scheduled legislative business could not proceed as planned.

Political Flashpoints

The NEET paper leak controversy has emerged as one of the Opposition's principal issues during the Monsoon Session. Opposition parties have accused the government of failing to protect the integrity of competitive examinations and have sought greater accountability from the Education Ministry.

The ruling alliance, meanwhile, has defended the government's actions and criticised what it describes as attempts by the Opposition to disrupt parliamentary proceedings for political gain.

The latest confrontation also follows the Opposition's protest near the Prime Minister's residence earlier this week, an event that has become another point of political disagreement between the two sides.

Impact on Parliament

With both alliances continuing their aggressive political campaigns inside and outside Parliament, legislative proceedings have repeatedly suffered interruptions during the initial days of the Monsoon Session.

Political observers believe that unless both sides agree on a framework for discussion, disruptions may continue over the coming days, delaying debate on several important bills and policy matters listed for the session.

The government has indicated its willingness to conduct House business, while Opposition parties have maintained that pressing public issues, particularly those concerning students and examination transparency, must receive priority attention.

The uproar began soon after the House assembled for the day. Opposition MLAs raised slogans against the state government, demanding accountability for the police action against students during protests held in Patna a day earlier. Carrying banners and placards, they accused the government of suppressing students' voices and sought action over the alleged use of force.

Amid the protests, BJP MLA Shyam Babu Yadav stood up in the Assembly and alleged that those involved in Wednesday's protest were "not students but hooligans." He claimed that he and his security personnel were attacked during the demonstration near Dak Bungalow Chowk and said his life had been in danger.

"Had things gone differently, I could have been killed yesterday," the BJP legislator alleged while addressing the House.

His remarks immediately triggered strong objections from opposition members, who moved towards the Well of the House in protest. BJP legislators also advanced towards the Well, leading to a tense face-off between members of both sides.

As the confrontation intensified, Assembly marshals stepped in to separate the legislators and restore order. Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav repeatedly appealed to members to return to their seats, reminding them that "this is the Assembly, not a battlefield." Despite repeated requests, the commotion continued, leaving the Chair with little option but to adjourn the proceedings until 2 pm, barely eight minutes after the session had begun.

The disruption was not limited to the Assembly. The Bihar Legislative Council also witnessed protests and disorder, with proceedings lasting only around 15 minutes before being adjourned until 2:30 pm.

Opposition Protest Outside the House

Before the Assembly session commenced, opposition legislators staged a sit-in protest in the Assembly portico, holding banners and raising slogans against the police action on students. Demonstrators accused the government of mishandling student protests and demanded transparency in recruitment examinations.

Placards carried by opposition members featured slogans such as "Remove BJP, Save Education," "Why 152 paper leaks in 10 years?", "Students demand transparent examinations and dignity," and "Police brutality against students will not be tolerated."

The opposition also demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging repeated failures in preventing examination paper leaks and protecting students' interests.

Supplementary Budget to Be Tabled

Despite the disruption, the Assembly's listed business for the day includes the presentation of the Second Supplementary Budget for the financial year 2026-27. Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary is scheduled to present the supplementary expenditure statement along with the Bihar Appropriation (No. 3) Bill, 2026, seeking legislative approval for the proposed additional expenditure.

The House is also expected to take up starred questions related to the Education and Cooperative Departments during Question Hour, subject to the restoration of normal proceedings.

Background

The confrontation in the Assembly comes a day after large-scale protests over the alleged paper leak issue and police action against demonstrators in Patna. The incident has intensified political tensions during the ongoing monsoon session.

On Wednesday, the Bihar Assembly had passed 13 Bills, taking the total number of legislations cleared during the first three sittings of the monsoon session to 20. While the opposition raised objections to several Bills, the government succeeded in passing all proposed legislation with the support of its majority.

Thursday's disruption has further sharpened the political divide between the ruling alliance and the opposition over student protests and law-and-order issues in the state.

The Bihar Assembly witnessed a stormy session on Wednesday as the Opposition protested over the drought-like situation in several districts, while the ruling NDA defended the government's preparedness. The session also saw sharp political exchanges after a BJP MLA mocked Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav for his absence from the House. Amid the heated debate, the Assembly passed the Bihar Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2026, paving the way for changes in the state's higher education framework.

CM Assures Relief for Farmers

The issue of inadequate rainfall and its impact on agriculture dominated the proceedings. During Question Hour, even ruling alliance legislators raised concerns over irregular electricity supply for irrigation, stating that farmers in several districts were struggling to water their crops due to inconsistent power availability.

Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said the government had taken note of the rainfall deficit in many parts of Bihar and was closely monitoring the situation.

He informed the House that efforts were being made to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply for irrigation from 6 am to 7 pm, enabling farmers to irrigate their fields without disruption.

The Chief Minister further directed district magistrates to assess drought conditions and submit detailed reports. Based on these reports, the government will initiate relief measures, including diesel subsidies for farmers in areas officially declared drought-affected.

He assured legislators that the state government would act promptly to protect crops and minimise farmers' losses if rainfall remained below normal.

Political Barbs Over Tejashwi's Absence

The Assembly also witnessed political sparring after BJP MLA Baidyanath Prasad questioned the absence of Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav.

In a sarcastic remark, the BJP legislator said Tejashwi appeared to be "mediating the US-Iran conflict" instead of attending the Assembly and contributing to discussions on Bihar's development.

The Opposition objected to the remarks, but the exchange added to the already charged atmosphere inside the House.

Private Universities Bill Gets Assembly Approval

The House later passed the Bihar Private Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2026 after a debate involving both the ruling alliance and Opposition members.

Higher Education Minister Sanjay Singh Tiger introduced the Bill, saying it was aimed at strengthening higher education opportunities within Bihar.

AIMIM MLA Akhtarul Iman expressed concern that the amendment should not favour private institutions at the expense of economically weaker students. RJD MLA Rahul Sharma also argued that student welfare must remain the primary focus while expanding private universities.

Replying to the debate, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said thousands of students from Bihar were currently studying in private universities outside the state, including institutions such as Amity University and Lovely Professional University.

He said the amendment was intended to create more quality higher education opportunities within Bihar so that students would not have to migrate to other states.

Opposition Protests Over Panchayat Tax

The Opposition also staged protests over the issue of proposed tax collection by panchayats. Left legislators argued that additional taxes would place an unnecessary burden on poor and rural families.

Opposition parties demanded a discussion through an adjournment motion, but after the proposal was rejected, MLAs entered the well of the House and raised slogans.

Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar repeatedly appealed to members to return to their seats. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary said the House would have an opportunity to debate the matter once the relevant legislation was introduced and invited the Opposition to bring amendments during discussions.

Debate Over Gambling Law Continues

The discussion also referred to the Bihar Gambling Prohibition Bill, 2026, which had been passed a day earlier.

The new legislation seeks to strengthen action against both traditional and online gambling by expanding legal provisions to include organisers, financiers and digital operators.

The law provides for freezing financial transactions linked to online gambling and imposes stricter penalties, including imprisonment for repeat offenders.

Council Witnesses Heated Exchanges

In the Bihar Legislative Council, RJD MLC Sunil Singh raised concerns over increasing drug abuse and criticised the government's handling of narcotics.

His remarks mentioning temples and religious places triggered protests from BJP members, leading to a heated verbal exchange inside the Council.

Later in the day, BJP MLC Anamika Singh and RJD MLC Munni Rajak were involved in a heated argument outside Opposition leader Rabri Devi's chamber.

With drought concerns, political confrontation and key legislative business dominating proceedings, the Monsoon Session continues to witness intense debates over governance, agriculture and public policy in Bihar.

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Tuesday approved 18 key proposals, including the launch of the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Scheme for meritorious female graduates and the construction of the 330-km Vindhya Expressway. The Cabinet also announced that the Monsoon Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature will be held from August 3 to August 6.

The decisions are aimed at promoting women’s education, strengthening infrastructure, and improving regional connectivity across the state. Along with the Vindhya Expressway, the government also approved the Vindhya–Purvanchal Link Expressway, which will integrate Uttar Pradesh’s major expressway network.

Free Scooters for Meritorious Girl Students

Under the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Scheme, female students who complete their graduation will receive free scooters. The benefit will be available to students from families with an annual income below ₹10 lakh, while only the top 5% performers in every university and college will qualify.

Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay said the government would provide more than just scooters. The package will include vehicle registration, insurance, helmets, essential accessories, and five litres of petrol, ensuring that students receive complete support.

The scooters will be petrol-powered and procured through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. The minister also announced that the income limit would not apply to differently-abled students, daughters of martyrs, and girls from destitute families, making the scheme more inclusive.

The initiative is expected to encourage higher education among women while improving their mobility, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.

Vindhya Expressway to Boost Regional Connectivity

The Cabinet also approved the 330-km Vindhya Expressway, estimated to cost around ₹22,400 crore. The expressway will begin from the terminal point of the Ganga Expressway at Sonwar Tehsil in Prayagraj and pass through Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Varanasi, Chandauli, and Sonbhadra.

Once completed, the project will directly connect Uttar Pradesh with the borders of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, significantly improving interstate trade and logistics.

The expressway will pass through approximately 341 villages, requiring nearly 2,800 hectares of land. Officials said travel time between Prayagraj and Sonbhadra would reduce from the current six-and-a-half hours to around three hours and fifteen minutes.

Vindhya–Purvanchal Link Expressway Approved

The government also sanctioned the 130-km Vindhya–Purvanchal Link Expressway, which will connect the Purvanchal Expressway with the new Vindhya Expressway.

The link road will pass through Ghazipur, Chandauli, Varanasi, and Mirzapur, covering around 135 villages and requiring another 2,800 hectares of land.

Once operational, the corridor will integrate the Purvanchal, Vindhya, and Ganga Expressways, creating seamless road connectivity from Delhi to the borders of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.

Monsoon Session from August 3

The Cabinet also announced that the Monsoon Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature will be held from August 3 to August 6, during which the government is expected to introduce and discuss several important legislative and policy matters.

The latest Cabinet decisions reflect the state's dual focus on women’s empowerment through education and large-scale infrastructure development. While the free scooter scheme is expected to improve educational access and mobility for deserving students, the expressway projects aim to strengthen industrial growth, regional connectivity, and economic development across eastern and southern Uttar Pradesh.

The second day of the Bihar Legislature's Monsoon Session witnessed intense political exchanges, with the Opposition protesting against the proposed panchayat tax collection in the Assembly, while the issue of drug abuse sparked a heated debate in the Legislative Council. The government also made key announcements on teacher recruitment, school infrastructure, and industrial development during the proceedings.

The Opposition created a ruckus in the Assembly after raising concerns that the proposed panchayat tax would impose an additional financial burden on poor families. Left legislators demanded a discussion on the proposed tax and the contingency fund, submitting an adjournment motion that was later rejected by the Speaker.

Following the rejection, Opposition MLAs entered the well of the House and staged a protest. Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar urged members to return to their seats, while Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary said the matter would be discussed when the relevant bill is introduced. He also invited the Opposition to bring amendment proposals during the legislative process, after which the protesting legislators returned to their seats.

Drug Abuse Issue Sparks Heated Debate

In the Legislative Council, RJD MLC Sunil Singh raised concerns over the increasing use of narcotic substances in Bihar. He alleged that marijuana and charas consumption had become common and claimed that drug use was visible even near religious places.

His remarks triggered strong objections from BJP members after he referred to temples and monasteries. A verbal exchange followed, adding to the tense atmosphere inside the House.

Sunil Singh also accused the state government of collecting higher taxes on petrol and diesel, alleging that Bihar was earning an additional ₹200 crore from fuel taxation.

Later in the day, BJP MLC Anamika Singh and RJD MLC Munni Rajak were involved in a heated argument outside the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rabri Devi over the same issue.

JD(U) MLA Questions Teacher Shortage

The government also faced criticism from within the ruling alliance. JD(U) MLA Shyam Rajak questioned the Education Department over the shortage of teachers in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar residential schools.

He claimed that nearly 62% of teaching positions remained vacant, raising concerns about the quality of education in these institutions.

Responding to the issue, Education Minister Lakhendra Kumar informed the House that 91 schools are currently operational with 1,290 teachers working against 2,406 sanctioned posts. He added that vacancies have been forwarded to the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) under the TRE-4 recruitment process.

When Rajak sought a clear timeline for appointments, the minister assured that recruitment would begin once BPSC completes the selection process.

Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary later intervened and directed the Education Department to ensure that teachers are appointed in the residential schools within one month.

Government Announces Major Education Initiatives

During Question Hour, the issue of inadequate school infrastructure was also discussed. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced that schools without land would be provided suitable land within the next six months.

Education Minister Lakhendra Kumar further announced that the state government plans to recruit one lakh teachers over the next five years, while proposals for the TRE-4 recruitment drive would be sent to the BPSC by the end of July.

Other Key Announcements

The government also announced plans to establish three new sugar mills, including in Gopalganj and Madhubani, to boost the state's agro-based economy.

Meanwhile, Opposition legislators staged demonstrations outside the Assembly before the session began, accusing the government of rising corruption, deteriorating law and order, and mishandling issues such as examination paper leaks.

With education, taxation, law and order, and governance dominating discussions, the second day of the Monsoon Session reflected both political confrontation and significant policy announcements that are expected to shape Bihar's administrative agenda in the coming months.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament remained stormy on its second day as persistent Opposition protests over the NEET paper leak and other issues repeatedly disrupted proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Amid the deadlock, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and senior party MPs met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding adequate time to discuss the examination controversy and other pressing national issues.

The repeated disruptions led to multiple adjournments before both Houses were finally adjourned for the day, highlighting the continuing standoff between the government and the Opposition.

Opposition Demands Discussion on NEET

Congress leaders urged the Speaker to allow a detailed debate on the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, arguing that the issue has affected the future of millions of students across the country.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge alleged that his microphone was switched off during proceedings, preventing him from raising key concerns in the House. The Opposition maintained that Parliament should prioritize discussions on issues directly affecting students and public interest.

Apart from the NEET controversy, Opposition parties also sought discussions on the alleged theft of offerings from the Ram Temple, making it another point of contention during the session.

Rahul Gandhi Meets Speaker Om Birla

Following the repeated adjournments, Rahul Gandhi, accompanied by several Congress MPs, met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to press for a structured debate on the NEET paper leak and other important matters.

The Congress delegation emphasized that Parliament should provide adequate opportunity for the Opposition to present its concerns instead of allowing repeated disruptions to derail legislative business.

PM Modi Calls NEET Leak a "Grave Sin"

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the NDA Parliamentary Party strategy meeting at Parliament House, where the NEET paper leak figured prominently in discussions.

Addressing party MPs, the Prime Minister described the examination leak as a "grave sin" and stressed that those responsible must face strict punishment. He also called for establishing a foolproof examination system to restore public confidence and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The government's remarks come amid increasing political pressure over examination-related irregularities and demands for greater accountability.

First Day Also Witnessed Repeated Disruptions

The Monsoon Session had opened on Monday with similar scenes of disruption. The Lok Sabha was adjourned six times, while the Rajya Sabha witnessed five adjournments due to Opposition protests.

Several MPs entered the House carrying placards and banners, demanding immediate discussions on the NEET paper leak and other issues. The protests repeatedly interrupted legislative proceedings, leaving little time for scheduled business.

Government Continues Legislative Agenda

Despite the disruptions, the government initiated its legislative agenda. In the Lok Sabha, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced a Bill to replace an ordinance that increases the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38.

The government is also expected to introduce several other key Bills during the Monsoon Session as it seeks to complete important legislative business within the scheduled sittings.

Political Confrontation Likely to Continue

With the Opposition determined to raise the NEET controversy and other issues, and the government pushing ahead with its legislative priorities, Parliament is expected to witness further confrontations in the coming days.

Political observers believe the NEET paper leak will remain one of the dominant issues throughout the Monsoon Session, alongside debates over governance, education reforms, and accountability.

Amid the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav addressed a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Legislature Party, calling on legislators to actively communicate the objectives and provisions of the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to the public.

Addressing party MLAs at the Chief Minister's residence on Monday night, Dr. Yadav described the proposed legislation as an important policy initiative that, according to the government, seeks to promote social harmony, equal rights, and women's empowerment.

He urged legislators to explain the proposed law in simple language so that citizens receive accurate information and greater awareness about its provisions.

"Public Awareness Is Key"

The Chief Minister said that the success of any major law or public policy depends not only on its implementation but also on how effectively people understand its objectives.

He encouraged MLAs to engage directly with residents in their constituencies and explain the purpose of the proposed Uniform Civil Code through regular public interaction.

According to Dr. Yadav, the initiative is intended to strengthen the principles of equality and justice for all citizens.

Focus on Women's Empowerment

A significant part of the discussion centred on women's rights and empowerment.

The Chief Minister said the proposed Uniform Civil Code is expected to strengthen legal protections for women and children and reinforce the principle of equal rights under the law.

He also referred to issues related to legal safeguards, including property rights, and encouraged legislators to raise public awareness about these aspects while promoting constructive dialogue within society.

BJP Leadership Calls for Grassroots Outreach

BJP State President Hemant Khandelwal, who also addressed the meeting, stressed the importance of providing factual information about the proposed legislation.

He urged party workers and elected representatives to explain the government's initiatives to people at the grassroots level and ensure that discussions remain based on verified information.

The meeting also reviewed organisational strategies aimed at strengthening the party's network down to the booth level and expanding public outreach campaigns across the state.

"Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" Campaign Highlighted

The meeting also focused on the government's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" tree plantation campaign.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and BJP leaders encouraged legislators to promote the initiative as a people's movement for environmental conservation by motivating citizens to participate in large-scale plantation drives.

The campaign was presented as an effort to combine environmental protection with public participation and social responsibility.

Discussion on Government Programmes and Assembly Strategy

Leaders also reviewed various welfare schemes, development initiatives, and organisational activities.

The meeting included discussions on issues expected to arise during the Assembly session, future political programmes, and strategies for ensuring effective participation in legislative proceedings.

Senior leaders advised MLAs to maintain regular interaction with people in their constituencies and keep citizens informed about development projects and government initiatives.

Senior Leaders Attend Meeting

The meeting was attended by several senior BJP leaders, including:

• Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda
• Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla
• Cabinet Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya
• Other ministers and BJP legislators from across Madhya Pradesh.

Party leadership also outlined upcoming organisational programmes and urged all elected representatives to participate actively in both legislative and public outreach activities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media ahead of the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and highlighted India's growing innovation ecosystem, the achievements of young entrepreneurs, and the country's rapid progress in science and technology. During his remarks, the Prime Minister also made a light-hearted political comment that drew smiles from leaders standing alongside him, becoming one of the talking points of the day.

While speaking about India's expanding space sector, PM Modi referred to the successful achievements of private aerospace startup Skyroot Aerospace. He praised the company's contribution to India's space ambitions and emphasized how young innovators are helping the nation achieve global recognition in advanced technology.

The Prime Minister said that India's youth are creating history through innovation, entrepreneurship, and scientific excellence. Referring to the team behind Skyroot Aerospace, he noted that the average age of its members is around 28 years, calling it an inspiring example of India's emerging talent pool.

During this part of his address, PM Modi humorously remarked that he was speaking about a team of 28-year-old youngsters and "not about a 56-year-old youth." The comment immediately drew laughter from Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who was standing behind the Prime Minister during the media briefing. Although no individual was named, the remark attracted considerable political attention as observers linked it to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

The exchange quickly became a major discussion point as political circles recalled the long-running verbal exchanges between Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi over the years. The latest remark was widely viewed as another chapter in the political rivalry that has frequently featured sharp yet indirect comments from both sides.

Prime Minister Modi's primary focus during the briefing, however, remained on India's achievements and the importance of maintaining a productive Parliament. He urged all Members of Parliament to participate in meaningful debates supported by facts and constructive discussions. According to the Prime Minister, Parliament functions best when every representative contributes positively toward nation-building and public welfare.

Highlighting India's technological progress, PM Modi referred to the country's growing private space industry. Over the past few years, India has opened its space sector to private participation, allowing startups and technology companies to contribute alongside national institutions. This policy shift has encouraged innovation, investment, and research in satellite technology, launch vehicles, and aerospace engineering.

Skyroot Aerospace has emerged as one of the prominent examples of India's new-generation space startups. The Prime Minister praised such companies for demonstrating that Indian talent is capable of competing globally in cutting-edge sectors. He noted that the achievements of young entrepreneurs inspire confidence in India's future and strengthen the country's position in the global innovation landscape.

PM Modi also underlined that India's youth are playing an increasingly important role across multiple sectors, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, renewable energy, and scientific research. He said that the government's continued emphasis on innovation, startup development, and skill enhancement is creating opportunities for talented young professionals throughout the country.

The media interaction took place shortly before Parliament began its Monsoon Session, which is expected to feature discussions on several important legislative proposals and national issues. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the session would remain productive and focused on meaningful policymaking rather than prolonged disruptions.

Political observers noted that while the humorous comment attracted media attention, the broader message of the Prime Minister's address centered on India's economic growth, technological advancement, and youth-driven development. Government leaders have consistently highlighted innovation and entrepreneurship as key pillars of India's long-term growth strategy.

The government's support for startups has led to rapid growth in India's entrepreneurial ecosystem over the past decade. Several Indian startups have gained international recognition across sectors including fintech, healthcare, education, clean energy, and space technology. The Prime Minister said such achievements reflect the confidence, creativity, and determination of India's younger generation.

As Parliament proceeds with the Monsoon Session, both the government and opposition are expected to engage in discussions on legislative business and national priorities. The government has reiterated its commitment to development-oriented governance, institutional reforms, and policies aimed at strengthening India's economy and global competitiveness.

The Prime Minister concluded his interaction by expressing confidence that India's youth would continue driving innovation and shaping the country's future. He encouraged young entrepreneurs, researchers, scientists, and professionals to keep pursuing excellence and contribute to India's journey toward becoming a leading global economic and technological power.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on a stormy note as repeated protests by opposition parties led to disruptions in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on the very first day. The proceedings were adjourned multiple times after opposition members demanded discussions on issues including the alleged NEET paper leak and matters related to donations at the Ram Temple. Despite the disruptions, the government proceeded with its legislative agenda by introducing an important bill to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media outside Parliament before the session commenced, expressing hope that the Monsoon Session would remain productive and focused on meaningful discussions. He emphasized that Parliament should become a platform where facts, logic, and constructive debates guide policymaking for the benefit of the nation.

The Prime Minister said that just as the monsoon season is important for agriculture and the country's economy, a productive parliamentary session is equally vital for democratic governance. He urged all political parties and Members of Parliament to participate responsibly and ensure that every voice is heard through healthy discussions rather than disruptions.

During his address, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted India's recent developmental achievements. He referred to the commissioning of one of the country's largest refinery projects in Rajasthan and mentioned the launch of India's green hydrogen-powered train. According to him, only a few countries currently operate hydrogen-powered trains, and India's train represents a significant technological milestone in sustainable transportation. He also noted that despite global economic uncertainties and geopolitical challenges, India has continued to register strong economic growth.

Inside Parliament, the opposition continued demanding debates on various public issues. Several members entered the House carrying placards and banners while raising slogans, leading to repeated interruptions in legislative business. As a result, both Houses witnessed multiple adjournments throughout the day.

Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge raised concerns regarding recent events at Jantar Mantar, where students had gathered for a protest. He urged the government to allow democratic expression and called for a discussion on the matter inside the House. Opposition members maintained that Parliament should debate issues they considered important to the public.

Despite the protests, the government introduced a significant legislative proposal in the Lok Sabha. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal presented the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026. The proposed legislation seeks to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India.

The amendment aims to replace an ordinance issued earlier this year that had already authorized the expansion of judicial strength. Following the ordinance, appointments of additional judges had been initiated to address the growing number of pending cases before the country's highest court.

Government officials have stated that increasing the number of judges will strengthen the judicial system, improve efficiency in case disposal, and help reduce the burden of pending litigation. Since the amendment only changes the sanctioned strength of judges, it does not require any constitutional amendment and can be passed through a simple majority in Parliament.

The first day of the Monsoon Session also witnessed the arrival of senior political leaders from both the ruling alliance and the opposition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met several senior BJP leaders, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, before the proceedings began. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also attended Parliament as opposition parties prepared to raise several issues during the session.

Political observers believe the Monsoon Session is likely to witness intense debates on governance, education, the economy, judicial reforms, and other national issues over the coming weeks. At the same time, the government is expected to introduce several important bills aimed at administrative reforms and institutional strengthening.

The expansion of the Supreme Court's sanctioned judicial strength is being viewed as an important step toward improving the efficiency of India's judicial system. Legal experts have frequently pointed out that increasing the number of judges can help accelerate hearings and reduce delays in delivering justice.

As Parliament moves forward with its legislative agenda, the government has reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and development-oriented policymaking. Prime Minister Modi once again appealed to all political parties to ensure that parliamentary proceedings remain focused on discussions that contribute positively to national progress.

With several significant bills expected during the Monsoon Session, both the government and the opposition are preparing for active participation in debates. Citizens across the country will closely watch the proceedings as Parliament deliberates on key issues affecting governance, justice, economic growth, and public welfare in the weeks ahead.

The five-day Monsoon Session of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly begins on Monday with an agenda expected to generate intense political debate. Agriculture-related concerns, including the availability of fertilizers and seeds during the Kharif season and the impact of below-normal rainfall, are likely to dominate proceedings on the opening day. Alongside these issues, both the ruling party and the opposition are preparing to raise several public-interest matters, making the session one of the most closely watched legislative events in the state.

The first sitting of the session will begin with the Assembly paying tribute to former legislators, distinguished public figures, and other personalities who passed away recently. Members will observe condolences before moving to the day's legislative business. The Assembly is scheduled to remember former MLAs Ashwini Joshi and Pahad Singh Kanouje, former Union Minister Major General B.C. Khanduri, renowned Urdu poet Dr. Bashir Badr, and celebrated Pandavani folk artist Teejan Bai for their contributions to public life and culture.

Following the obituary references, the House will proceed with Question Hour, where ministers will respond to queries raised by legislators on matters related to governance and public administration. This will be followed by the presentation of ordinances and annual reports from various government departments.

The state government is expected to table amendments related to the Panchayat Raj Ordinance and the Cess Amendment Ordinance during the day's proceedings. In addition, annual reports and official notifications connected to departments such as Goods and Services Tax (GST), Value Added Tax (VAT), education, health, energy, industrial development, and higher education will be presented before the House for consideration.

The most significant discussion of the opening day is expected to focus on the challenges being faced by farmers during the ongoing Kharif season. The Opposition plans to raise concerns regarding the shortage of fertilizers and certified seeds, as well as the impact of inadequate rainfall in several districts of Madhya Pradesh. These issues have become increasingly important as farmers prepare their fields amid uncertain weather conditions.

Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar is expected to seek a discussion under Rule 139 on fertilizer availability, seed distribution, and rainfall-related concerns affecting agricultural production. The debate is likely to witness sharp exchanges between treasury benches and the opposition, with legislators presenting differing views on the government's preparedness and response to the agricultural situation.

Apart from agriculture, several other issues are expected to dominate the session. The opposition has formulated a strategy to question the government over law and order, alleged examination paper leak incidents, land purchase-related matters, and compensation issues concerning families displaced by the Ken-Betwa river linking project. These topics are expected to generate extensive discussions throughout the five-day session.

On the government's legislative agenda, the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill is expected to be introduced during the session. The proposed legislation is likely to become another major point of discussion, attracting attention from both ruling and opposition members due to its legal and social significance.

Members of the Legislative Assembly have also submitted several Calling Attention Motions on issues affecting the public. One such proposal relates to the alleged lack of effective action against high-volume DJ sound systems despite existing regulations. The matter is expected to be raised to seek clarification from the concerned department regarding enforcement measures and public inconvenience caused by excessive noise.

Another issue scheduled for discussion concerns the repair and development of the Madhya Pradesh Bhavan located in Pandharpur, Maharashtra. Legislators are expected to seek updates regarding the maintenance and infrastructure improvement of the state guest facility, which serves pilgrims and visitors traveling from Madhya Pradesh.

Public welfare will remain another important focus of the session. Legislators are scheduled to present around 25 public-interest petitions concerning local development issues from their respective constituencies. These petitions include demands for road construction, bridge development, drinking water facilities, school buildings, municipal council formation, healthcare infrastructure, irrigation projects, and electricity supply improvements. Such matters reflect the day-to-day governance challenges faced across urban and rural areas of the state.

The Assembly will also conduct elections for two important legislative committees on the opening day. Members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Welfare Committee and the Backward Classes Welfare Committee will be elected through the prescribed Assembly process. Each committee will consist of eleven members responsible for reviewing welfare measures and policy implementation concerning their respective communities.

With a packed legislative schedule, the Monsoon Session is expected to witness detailed discussions on governance, agriculture, public welfare, and policy reforms. While the ruling party is likely to highlight its developmental initiatives and legislative priorities, the opposition is preparing to scrutinize government performance across multiple sectors.

As the proceedings commence, political observers expect spirited debates and active participation from legislators throughout the five-day session. The issues under discussion are likely to influence policy decisions affecting farmers, public infrastructure, welfare programs, and administrative reforms, making this Monsoon Session a significant event in Madhya Pradesh's legislative calendar.

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a petition filed by Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, wife of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, at 2:30 pm on Sunday. The plea seeks permission to shift Wangchuk from Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital to a private medical facility, claiming that he is being kept in the government hospital against his wishes despite repeated requests from his family.

The hearing comes as Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike, which began on 28 June, demanding accountability over the alleged NEET paper leak and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Wife Alleges Forced Hospitalisation

In her petition before the High Court, Dr. Angmo has alleged that Wangchuk is effectively under detention in the hospital under the pretext of medical treatment. She stated that the family has lost confidence in the medical care being provided at Safdarjung Hospital and wants him shifted to a private hospital of their choice.

According to the plea, despite repeated representations, hospital authorities have neither discharged the activist nor permitted his transfer. The petition argues that Wangchuk's continued stay at the government hospital is against his wishes and raises concerns about his personal liberty and medical autonomy.

Safdarjung Hospital Says Condition Stable

Responding to the controversy, Safdarjung Hospital issued a medical bulletin on Sunday morning stating that Wangchuk is receiving appropriate treatment under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team.

According to the hospital, his vital signs remain stable, although certain blood parameters continue to show mild abnormalities due to the prolonged fast. Doctors said the activist requires continuous medical monitoring because extended fasting can place severe physiological stress on the body.

The hospital also noted that Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution (ORS), and medication, making close medical supervision essential.

Wangchuk Calls Parliament March 'India's Second Freedom Movement'

Amid the legal proceedings, Wangchuk released a handwritten message through his wife on social media platform X, urging supporters to make the planned Parliament march on 20 July a success.

Describing the campaign as "India's second freedom movement," Wangchuk appealed to citizens to unite against what he called injustice, fear, paper leaks and the alleged misuse of power. The note was reportedly written from Safdarjung Hospital, where he referred to his stay as an "illegal detention."

The activist's appeal has intensified political attention around the protest, with supporters preparing to participate in the march during the opening of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Hunger Strike Continues Amid Growing Attention

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite fast for over three weeks, maintaining that his protest is aimed at ensuring greater accountability in public institutions and highlighting concerns over examination irregularities.

His deteriorating health, coupled with the legal battle over his treatment and continued hospitalisation, has drawn widespread attention from civil society groups and political observers. The outcome of Sunday's High Court hearing is expected to determine whether Wangchuk can be shifted to a private medical facility while continuing his protest.

A day before the commencement of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, an all-party meeting convened by the Centre witnessed high political drama on Sunday as leaders of several opposition parties walked out in protest over the presence of rebel Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs. The opposition members, however, returned later to continue discussions after registering their objections.

The meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the Parliament House Annexe, was called to seek cooperation from political parties for the smooth functioning of Parliament during the session scheduled from July 20 to August 13. The session will have 19 sittings, during which the government is expected to introduce and discuss several important legislative and policy matters.

Opposition Protests Over Rebel MPs

The protest erupted after the government invited 20 rebel TMC MPs, who recently announced their association with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI). Opposition leaders argued that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has not formally recognised the breakaway group as a separate parliamentary entity, while disqualification petitions against the rebel MPs are still pending.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra said leaders from the Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), National Conference, Left parties and Shiv Sena (UBT) jointly walked out to protest the move.

Moitra questioned the legal basis for inviting the rebel MPs, stating that the official records of the Lok Sabha still recognise the TMC with its original parliamentary strength. She also argued that after the 91st Constitutional Amendment, recognition of a separate faction within a political party no longer has constitutional backing.

Government Calls for Cooperation

Before the meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju appealed to all parties to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament.

He said Parliament belongs to every political party and urged members to avoid disruptions, emphasising that meaningful debate would benefit both democracy and the public.

Despite the initial walkout, opposition leaders later returned to participate in the meeting, allowing discussions on the government's legislative agenda and issues expected to dominate the upcoming session.

Recent Political Realignments

The controversy follows significant political developments in recent weeks. On June 15, twenty TMC MPs announced their merger with the NCPI, while on June 22, six Lok Sabha MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena joined the Eknath Shinde faction.

The Lok Sabha Speaker has since allowed both groups to sit separately in the House, a move that has triggered sharp criticism from opposition parties.

Rebel TMC leader Sudip Bandopadhyay attended Sunday's meeting, stating that he was participating as the leader of the NCPI.

Impact on Parliamentary Numbers

The recent defections have strengthened the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Parliament.

In the Lok Sabha, the NDA's strength has increased to 318 members following the support of rebel MPs from the TMC and Shiv Sena factions. However, with the effective strength of the House currently at 540 members, the alliance remains 42 votes short of the 360-member two-thirds majority required to pass constitutional amendment bills.

In the Rajya Sabha, the NDA currently has 152 members, leaving it 11 votes short of the 163-member two-thirds majority.

The strengthened numbers are expected to boost the government's prospects for future legislative initiatives, including proposals related to constitutional amendments, women's reservation and parliamentary delimitation, although the alliance still lacks the numbers required to secure their passage without additional support.

With the Monsoon Session beginning on Monday, both the government and opposition are expected to engage in intense debates over legislative business as well as several political and public issues likely to dominate proceedings.