New Delhi: The Monsoon Session of Parliament witnessed another day of repeated disruptions on Wednesday as Opposition parties intensified their protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding a statement on the alleged police action during a recent protest march. Sloganeering, placards and protests forced both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha to be adjourned several times before proceedings were suspended till 2 PM.

As Parliament convened for the day, Opposition members entered both Houses carrying banners reading "Amit Shah Jawab Do", demanding accountability over the alleged police action against protesters during the 'Chalo Sansad' march held on July 20. The protests disrupted Question Hour and legislative business almost immediately after proceedings began.

The Lok Sabha resumed briefly around 11 AM, but amid continued sloganeering from Opposition benches, the House was adjourned within a minute. The Rajya Sabha also witnessed similar scenes, with Opposition MPs raising slogans and demanding a discussion on various issues before it too was adjourned.

When the Rajya Sabha reconvened at noon, Chairman and Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan appealed to members to maintain parliamentary decorum. He warned MPs against entering the Well of the House or displaying placards during proceedings, stating that failure to follow parliamentary rules could invite disciplinary action.

"My humble request is that members should cooperate with the Chair. Do not enter the Well of the House or display placards. If these rules are violated, I may be compelled to take action," the Chairman said before the House was again disrupted by protests.

The Opposition has demanded that Union Home Minister Amit Shah make a statement in Parliament regarding the alleged use of force against demonstrators during the July 20 protest. Congress leader Pawan Khera said the Home Minister should respond to concerns raised by Opposition parties and clarify the government's position on the issue.

Khera also called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address Parliament on several other matters, including the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and allegations related to the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation controversy.

Outside Parliament, Opposition MPs, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and several leaders from INDIA bloc parties, announced a protest march from the Gandhi Statue at Prerna Sthal to Makar Dwar. The march was organised to press for answers from the government over the alleged police action and other issues raised by Opposition parties.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders accused the Opposition of deliberately disrupting Parliament instead of allowing legislative business to proceed. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal criticised the Opposition for remaining silent on the alleged paper leak protests in Jharkhand while repeatedly disrupting Parliament over other issues.

According to Pal, the Centre has already addressed concerns raised by students on several occasions, and the continued protests inside Parliament are politically motivated. He questioned why Opposition leaders had not shown similar urgency regarding student demonstrations in Jharkhand.

The Monsoon Session also saw political exchanges over Article 370. On the seventh anniversary of its abrogation, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi described the removal of Article 370 as "unconstitutional" and criticised the delay in restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. While acknowledging the Supreme Court's verdict on the matter, Owaisi maintained that he personally disagreed with the manner in which the constitutional provision was revoked.

Congress leader and Telangana minister Mohammad Azharuddin also supported the Opposition's protest, saying Parliament is the appropriate forum for discussing such issues and that all senior ministers, including the Home Minister, should participate in the debate.

Despite repeated adjournments, the government is expected to take up several important legislative items during the day. In the Rajya Sabha, the Supreme Court (Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, proposing an increase in the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges to 38, is likely to be introduced for consideration after having already been cleared by the Lok Sabha.

The Lok Sabha's agenda also includes discussion on key legislative business, including the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill and the Taxation Amendment Bill, subject to normal functioning of the House.

With only a few sittings remaining in the Monsoon Session, continued disruptions have raised concerns over the limited time available for debate on pending legislation, even as both the government and Opposition remain firm on their respective positions.

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.

According to opposition leaders, Congress intends to raise issues including alleged examination paper leaks, inflation, unemployment and what it describes as irregularities in political funding. However, the proposed delimitation exercise is emerging as the principal constitutional issue around which the INDIA bloc is attempting to build unity.

The Congress has reached out to its alliance partners, including the DMK, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and other regional parties, seeking a common floor strategy before the session begins. Party leaders believe a united opposition would be better placed to challenge the government's legislative agenda and force detailed discussions on contentious Bills.

The delimitation issue has remained politically sensitive since the Centre's earlier attempt to introduce legislation linked to expanding Lok Sabha seats and implementing women's reservation. Opposition parties, particularly those from southern India, have argued that any exercise based primarily on population could reduce their relative representation despite their success in population control measures.

The DMK has consistently maintained that any delimitation exercise must not disadvantage states that have effectively implemented family planning policies. The party is expected to reiterate that position during the Monsoon Session and coordinate closely with other INDIA bloc members on the issue.

While the Congress is attempting to project opposition unity, recent political developments have created fresh challenges within the alliance. Differences between some regional parties and changing political equations have prompted questions about whether the INDIA bloc can maintain a common stand throughout the session. Despite those concerns, party leaders insist that constitutional matters such as delimitation require a collective response.

The government, meanwhile, is expected to push its legislative agenda while relying on its numerical strength in Parliament. Political observers believe the NDA enters the Monsoon Session in a stronger position than during the special session held earlier this year, when opposition parties had successfully stalled key constitutional proposals.

Ahead of the session, the Centre has convened an all-party meeting on July 19 to discuss legislative business and seek cooperation from political parties. At the same time, the Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued an advisory asking MPs to maintain parliamentary decorum and avoid protests or demonstrations inside the Parliament complex.

As Parliament prepares to reconvene, the Monsoon Session is expected to witness sharp exchanges between the treasury benches and the opposition over constitutional reforms, governance issues and economic concerns. The debate over delimitation is likely to remain at the centre of the political confrontation, with both sides preparing for one of the session's most significant legislative battles.

The BJP's push, dubbed internally as a Bengal-style micro-management model, centres on booth-level control across all 403 constituencies. At a state executive meeting in Lucknow chaired by state president Pankaj Chaudhary and state general secretary (organisation) Dharampal Singh, the party directed leaders to compile booth-wise lists from its roughly 2.5 crore primary members, building on mandal-wise lists already prepared earlier. The plan involves appointing nearly 1.76 lakh "booth palaks," or booth caretakers, tasked with maintaining contact with voters, coordinating with local committees and monitoring political trends at the ground level. The BJP intends to review all 1,62,459 Assembly booths across the state — including over 27,000 "shakti kendras" spanning nearly 1,900 mandals — within the coming month, an exercise that will also cover close to 14,000 new booths created after the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

The structure leans on a few specific mechanisms. Under the "panna pramukh" system, individual workers are assigned responsibility for 30 to 35 voters listed on a single page of the electoral roll, staying in regular contact to ensure they turn out on polling day. Booths are also being sorted into strong, competitive and weak categories, with additional manpower directed toward the more contested ones. Chaudhary has described booth-level workers as the party's "real warriors," and leaders have also been told to prepare lists of government welfare scheme beneficiaries as an additional outreach channel. Party discussions have specifically flagged the need to counter the Samajwadi Party's PDA formula — its strategy of consolidating backward classes, Dalits and minorities into a unified voter base.

The Samajwadi Party, for its part, appears to be running its own quiet parallel operation. According to party sources, SP has already internally finalised candidates for more than half of Uttar Pradesh's 403 seats, well ahead of any formal announcement, and has directed those selected contenders to begin strengthening booth networks and consolidating local caste and social equations in their constituencies. The party has reportedly prioritised seats where sitting legislators remain strong, where it narrowly lost in 2022, and where internal surveys point to winnable candidates.

The early positioning comes as SP and Congress, both part of the INDIA bloc, are expected to begin seat-sharing negotiations for 2027. Following the alliance's stronger-than-expected showing in Uttar Pradesh during the 2024 Lok Sabha election, Congress is believed to be preparing a more assertive claim on Assembly seats than in previous cycles, reportedly seeking strong candidates across 100 to 125 constituencies while keeping its organisational units active statewide as a contingency. SP leadership, buoyed by its own improved position after 2024, believes it has grounds to claim the overwhelming majority of seats within any alliance arrangement.

With the BJP betting on grassroots saturation and the SP betting on early candidate clarity and social coalition-building, Uttar Pradesh's 403-seat contest — India's largest assembly election by voter count — is shaping up as a battle that both major camps are choosing to fight years, not months, in advance.

The spat began after Singh, an SP leader, said Masood shouldn't be taken too seriously and that there had been no discussion of any alliance involving him specifically, adding that such decisions rested solely with the party's top leadership. Speaking in Saharanpur, Masood responded sharply, arguing that the SP was in no position to lecture Congress on alliance politics given how much it had benefited from one. He pointed to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, arguing the SP's strong showing of 37 seats came directly from its partnership with Congress, contrasting it with the party's more modest tally of under 120 seats in the 2022 assembly polls without that alliance.

Masood didn't stop at electoral arithmetic. He went further, alleging that the Samajwadi Party has a pattern of being unable to tolerate a Muslim leader who speaks up, and suggested such a leader currently exists within Congress instead — a clear, if indirect, reference to himself.

The exchange lands at a sensitive moment for the INDIA bloc. Congress and the SP fought the 2024 Lok Sabha elections together, with the alliance performing strongly across Uttar Pradesh — the SP emerged as the state's largest party and Congress picked up six seats. The two are widely expected to contest the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections together as well, though neither party has made a formal announcement confirming the alliance will continue.

Masood's remarks also follow a separate recent debate within opposition ranks over whether AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi should be brought into a broader INDIA bloc coalition for the UP elections — a question that has already exposed some daylight between Congress and SP leadership, with Masood previously arguing that only Rahul Gandhi's leadership offers a real path to defeating the BJP, while SP's Ram Gopal Yadav has taken a more open-ended position, saying any party willing to help beat the BJP is welcome.

Neither Udaiveer Singh nor the Samajwadi Party's central leadership had issued a further response to Masood's comments at the time of publishing. With both parties still expected to contest the 2027 polls as allies, how this particular exchange is smoothed over — or isn't — may offer an early signal of how steady that partnership actually is heading into campaign season.

The seventh meeting of the INDIA bloc concluded at the Constitution Club here on Monday, with top opposition leaders reaching a five-point consensus on key national issues ranging from electoral reforms to economic distress. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced the decisions after hours of deliberations, signalling an attempt by the alliance to regroup ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, and several others attended the meeting in person, while Uddhav Thackeray and Hemant Soren joined virtually. Kharge later told reporters that 23 to 25 parties participated and a broad agreement was reached despite differing regional concerns.

Leaders Gather After Two-Year Gap

The meeting comes nearly two years after the last formal INDIA bloc gathering in Delhi in June 2024. In the interim, the alliance navigated multiple state polls with mixed results — fighting united in some states like Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand, but separately in others including Kerala and West Bengal.

Senior leaders described the Monday huddle as an opportunity to address common challenges posed by the ruling NDA. Kharge highlighted issues such as alleged misuse of central agencies, economic slowdown, and youth unemployment.

Five Key Decisions Announced

After the meeting, Kharge outlined the consensus points. The alliance decided to send a letter to the Chief Justice of India raising concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and alleged irregularities in the electoral process. 

The bloc also unanimously demanded the immediate resignation of the Union Education Minister, citing lapses in the conduct of NEET and CBSE examinations that affected lakhs of students. 

A third point called upon the Centre to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the “precarious” economic situation, rising prices, unemployment, and farmers’ issues. 

Also Read: Internal rumblings surface as INDIA bloc convenes in national capital

Regular Coordination Planned

In a bid to strengthen unity, parties agreed to meet physically every two months. The next meeting is scheduled for Hyderabad in August. Additionally, parliamentary floor coordination will continue during the upcoming Monsoon Session, with daily morning meetings at the office of Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Kharge emphasised that all parties shared their views freely and consensus emerged on fighting together on people-centric issues.

UnderCurrents of Tension

The meeting took place against a backdrop of visible strains within the alliance. Posters targeting Rahul Gandhi and the Congress appeared on Akbar Road earlier in the day, which Youth Congress workers later removed. Several leaders dismissed the posters as “cheap tactics” possibly aimed at creating divisions. 

Regional frictions were also evident. Parties from Kerala and Jharkhand have expressed unhappiness over recent Congress decisions, while seat-sharing talks for future polls remain delicate. Mamata Banerjee’s attendance drew attention amid reports of some Trinamool Congress MPs exploring other options. Despite these challenges, leaders projected a show of unity, with Sonia Gandhi and Mamata seen sharing warm moments.

Sharad Pawar, who attended with daughter Supriya Sule, noted that no immediate major decisions were expected but discussions would continue. He spoke of evolving a “formula” to prevent rigidity and maintain alliance cohesion, especially with no major national polls for the next few years.

Opposition Eyes United Front

The INDIA bloc, formed in 2023, had tasted success in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, restricting the BJP from a majority on its own. Since then, it has seen both victories and setbacks in state elections. Monday’s meeting is seen as an effort to recalibrate strategy ahead of the 2029 general elections and upcoming state polls in states like Uttar Pradesh.

Congress leaders expressed confidence that the alliance remained united at the national level despite local differences. RJD’s Manoj Kumar Jha and others called for addressing internal issues on appropriate platforms rather than through public posturing.

As the Monsoon Session approaches, the opposition is expected to press the government on economic concerns, education reforms, and electoral integrity. The decisions taken today are likely to shape their parliamentary strategy in the coming weeks. 

The development comes at a time when opposition parties are seeking to counter what they describe as “misgovernance” on multiple fronts. How effectively they translate today’s consensus into coordinated action will be watched closely in the days ahead.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has announced that it will not participate in the INDIA bloc meeting scheduled in New Delhi on June 8, marking a significant escalation in its growing rift with the Congress. The decision comes after senior DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin accused the Congress of betraying the party by supporting actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) following the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

The latest development signals a major political shift in Tamil Nadu and raises fresh questions about the future of opposition unity at the national level. Addressing a thanksgiving meeting in Chennai’s Chepauk-Triplicane constituency on Thursday, Udhayanidhi said the DMK would not forget what he described as Congress’ “betrayal” after nearly two decades of political partnership.

According to Udhayanidhi, several Congress legislators who won elections as part of the DMK-led alliance later extended support to TVK, a move that the DMK views as a breach of trust. He also pointed out that none of the victorious Congress MLAs visited the DMK leadership after the election results, further deepening tensions between the two parties.

Alliance Under Strain

The fallout has already resulted in visible political distancing. In May, the DMK sought a separate seating arrangement in the Lok Sabha, formally requesting that its MPs no longer be seated alongside Congress members. DMK leader Kanimozhi wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, stating that the changing political circumstances warranted a revised arrangement.

The latest decision to skip the INDIA bloc meeting is being viewed as another strong signal that relations between the two parties have deteriorated significantly. The June 8 meeting is expected to bring together leaders from several opposition parties, including Congress, Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party, to discuss future political strategies.

TVK's Rise Alters Political Equations

The emergence of actor-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK has reshaped Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. Formed in 2024, the party delivered a remarkable performance in the Assembly elections, securing 108 seats and emerging as a major force in the state.

The Congress decision to support TVK after the election results appears to have triggered the current conflict. DMK leaders argue that the move effectively undermined the alliance that had worked together during the election campaign.

Political analysts believe the development could have wider implications for opposition politics, especially at a time when regional parties are reassessing their relationships within the INDIA bloc.

From Partnership to Political Break

The Congress-DMK relationship has experienced several phases over the decades. While the two parties first collaborated during the early 1970s under the leadership of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, the alliance later fractured after the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in 1991.

The partnership was revived in 2004 when the DMK exited the NDA and joined hands with Congress. The alliance went on to achieve significant electoral success, including a near sweep in the 2004 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections and victory in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls.

Following Karunanidhi’s death, DMK president M.K. Stalin further strengthened ties with Congress. However, the post-election developments of 2026 have now brought the alliance to a breaking point.

Revanth Reddy Backs Rahul Gandhi as INDIA Bloc’s 2029 PM Candidate

Telangana Chief Minister pitches Rahul as face of opposition alliance while flagging voter demand for quick results

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Saturday strongly advocated for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to be projected as the prime ministerial face of the INDIA bloc for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. He said the Congress would take the lead by announcing Rahul Gandhi’s name and then work to convince its alliance partners.

Speaking at a news conclave, Revanth Reddy made it clear that the move was not driven by any personal ambition on Rahul Gandhi’s part. “Becoming Prime Minister is not Rahul’s personal desire,” he said, adding that he had personally convinced the Congress MP to accept the responsibility during a recent meeting in Vikarabad.

The statement marks a significant intervention from a key Congress chief minister at a time when the opposition alliance is still navigating questions over leadership and strategy after recent electoral setbacks.

Allies to be Persuaded

Revanth Reddy outlined a clear sequence. The Congress, he said, would first declare Rahul Gandhi as its choice and then engage with INDIA bloc partners to build consensus. He expressed confidence that allies could be brought on board once the Congress took a firm position.

His remarks come amid competing signals within the opposition. Leaders from Trinamool Congress and DMK have earlier floated the names of Mamata Banerjee and M.K. Stalin as possible prime ministerial candidates. However, the political landscape has shifted following assembly election outcomes in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.

Setbacks for Regional Heavyweights

Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress was ousted from power in West Bengal after a decade in office. In Tamil Nadu, the DMK government led by M.K. Stalin also faced defeat. These developments have altered equations within the INDIA bloc, opening the door for fresh discussions on leadership.

Revanth Reddy’s pitch positions Rahul Gandhi as a unifying national figure capable of leading the alliance into the next general elections. The Telangana leader, who has emerged as one of the more assertive voices in the Congress, emphasised the need for the bloc to present a clear alternative.

‘Swiggy-Style Politics’ Concern

In a candid remark that reflected changing voter expectations, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the public’s evolving mindset towards politics. He observed that people now seek “Swiggy-style politics” — expecting instant delivery and direct results, much like quick commerce services.

This observation underscores the challenge facing political parties as voters, particularly younger demographics, demand faster governance outcomes and visible deliverables over traditional political processes.

Personal Equation with Naidu

Revanth Reddy also touched upon his own political journey. He recalled working in the Telugu Desam Party for nearly a decade and said Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu still treats him with respect. Before switching to Congress, he had personally informed Naidu of his decision in Vijayawada, he added.

The reference highlights the fluid nature of political relationships in southern India and Revanth Reddy’s effort to strike a note of civility even while positioning his party strongly against the NDA.

Timing and Significance

The Telangana Chief Minister’s intervention assumes importance as the INDIA bloc looks to regroup ahead of upcoming state polls and the 2029 national contest. With Congress yet to formally announce its strategy, Revanth Reddy’s remarks could set the tone for internal discussions.

Party insiders say the focus remains on strengthening organisational machinery and presenting a coherent narrative. Rahul Gandhi has been actively touring different states and focusing on issues of unemployment, inequality, and institutional autonomy.

While reactions from other INDIA constituents are awaited, Revanth Reddy’s public backing adds momentum to the idea of Rahul Gandhi as the central face of the opposition. It also signals that Congress is keen to assert its role within the alliance rather than play a secondary part.

Political observers note that success will ultimately depend on how effectively the bloc manages internal contradictions and presents a joint front on key national issues. For now, Revanth Reddy has thrown his weight behind Rahul Gandhi, setting the stage for what could be a prolonged conversation within the opposition camp.

Omar Abdullah Rejects Tricolour Ribbon Cut at J&K Event

Chief Minister asks organisers to preserve ribbon with respect during Srinagar handicrafts expo inauguration, moment goes viral

Ribbon Refusal Sparks Buzz

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday refused to cut a tricolour-striped ribbon at the inauguration of a handicrafts exhibition in Srinagar. He directed organisers to untie and safely preserve it instead. The incident, captured on camera at Kashmir Haat, quickly spread across social media.

Calm Untying Gesture

Abdullah approached the saffron, white and green ribbon during the 'Know Your Artisans' event but paused upon noticing its colours. Sources indicated he handed it back politely, stressing the need to treat it with respect. The two-day handloom expo proceeded smoothly thereafter.

Accompanied by Key Leaders

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and adviser Nasir Aslam Wani joined Abdullah at the venue. Officials confirmed the ceremony continued without delay after the ribbon's removal. Visuals showed the chief minister interacting warmly with artisans post-inauguration.

Past Tiranga Advocacy

Abdullah has long championed respect for the national flag. In August 2025, he led a Tiranga Yatra at Dal Lake, calling the Tricolour a "living symbol of unity, peace and harmony". He urged citizens to uphold its ideals of secularism and brotherhood, drawing from historical struggles to hoist it freely.

Official Emphasis on Flag Prestige

During that event, Abdullah recounted how one individual's fight changed flag-hoisting rules in India. "We should uphold the prestige of the national flag; it is our identity," he stated then, as per reports. Wednesday's gesture aligns with this stance, according to close aides.

INDIA Bloc Meeting Looms

Speaking to reporters post-event, Abdullah confirmed attending a 3 pm INDIA bloc meeting at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's Delhi residence. "We cannot act alone; the bloc must decide our parliamentary response," he said on latest news today from the India news update scene.

Delimitation Doubts Raised

On the proposed delimitation Bill, Abdullah questioned its benefits. He alleged the 2023 J&K exercise favoured BJP allies through seat allocations and voter shifts. "It remains to be seen if this aids the common voter," he remarked, highlighting concerns in this public interest story.

Public Reaction Builds

Social media users praised Abdullah's sensitivity, with many sharing the viral clip. Political observers see it as a nod to constitutional respect amid J&K's evolving dynamics. No formal complaint arose from organisers, who complied promptly.

Policy Implications Emerge

The episode underscores sensitivities around national symbols in official events, especially post-Article 370 changes. It reinforces protocols for Tricolour use, as outlined in the Flag Code of India. Event planners now face scrutiny on ribbon choices for future functions.

Parliament Path Ahead

As INDIA bloc leaders convene, eyes remain on opposition strategy against delimitation. National Conference sources expect a unified front in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha debates.

Today's parliamentary session was one of the most action-packed days of the Budget Session 2026 — with major financial business, charged political confrontations, a crucial election, and a deepening LPG crisis all colliding inside the walls of Parliament at the same time.

Appropriation Bill 2026 Moves in Rajya Sabha — The Key Financial Business of the Day

The most significant legislative development of the day came when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman formally moved the Appropriation Bill 2026 in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill authorises the payment and appropriation of further sums from the Consolidated Fund of India for the services of the financial year 2025–26, and its passage in the Upper House marks a critical step in completing India's budget cycle.

The Appropriation Bill had already been moved in the Lok Sabha on March 13, alongside the Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26. Today's Rajya Sabha proceedings brought it one step closer to becoming law.

In the Lok Sabha, discussions and voting on the Demands for Grants under the Ministry of Railways for the financial year 2026–27 were taken up today — with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and his ministry under scrutiny over infrastructure allocations, train safety, and the pace of modernisation projects.

Railways and Agriculture Grants: What Parliament Approved

Today's voting on Railway Demands for Grants 2026–27 took centre stage in the Lok Sabha. Railways received one of the largest allocations in this year's Union Budget — a figure that reflects the government's continued push to expand freight corridors, modernise stations, and accelerate the Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat train networks.

The Agriculture Ministry Demands for Grants were also slated for discussion — a politically sensitive allocation given that farmer distress, MSP guarantees, and rural income have remained flashpoints throughout this entire budget session.

Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also made a statement on the floor outlining the government's legislative agenda for the week beginning March 16, signalling more heavy-duty parliamentary business ahead before the session closes on April 2.

Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: BJP-NDA Plays Strategy in Bihar, Haryana and Odisha

Off the floor but all over Parliament's corridors today was the Rajya Sabha by-election drama. Polling was held today for Rajya Sabha seats in Bihar, Haryana, and Odisha — and the BJP-led NDA made a calculated move by backing independent candidates linked to the saffron party, including RLM chief Upendra Kushwaha, to maximise its seat count in the Upper House.

The opposition INDIA bloc pushed back hard, fielding its own candidates and attempting to consolidate its strength in the Rajya Sabha ahead of what promises to be a combative second half of the Budget Session. Results are expected later today.

LPG Crisis: Opposition Turns Up the Heat

If there is one issue dominating the political atmosphere outside the formal budget business, it is the LPG shortage. Opposition MPs across the INDIA bloc, led by Rahul Gandhi, have submitted notices in both Houses demanding an urgent discussion on nationwide reports of LPG cylinder shortages and price pressures linked directly to the escalating West Asia war.

The opposition's argument is blunt: common Indian households — particularly in smaller cities and rural India — are struggling to get cooking gas cylinders, and the government must answer for it in Parliament, not deflect with procedural objections.

The government has pushed back sharply. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was involved in direct exchanges with MPs over grant discussions, stating that crude oil supplies remain secure. The government insists the shortage reports are exaggerated and that supply chains are intact. The Opposition remains unconvinced — and is likely to intensify this campaign on the floor of both Houses in the coming days.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar Removal Notice: A Constitutional Confrontation

Adding another layer of political tension to today's session, the INDIA bloc had already filed notices in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on March 13 seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar — with 180 opposition MPs reportedly signing the notice, comprising 120 Lok Sabha members and 60 Rajya Sabha members.

The Trinamool Congress has been at the forefront of this move, alleging misuse of constitutional authority and questioning the independence of the Election Commission. The BJP and NDA have dismissed the move as political theatre. Speaker Om Birla's handling of these notices — and whether they will be admitted for debate — is being watched closely as a test of parliamentary procedure.

This confrontation follows directly on the heels of the failed Opposition resolution last week seeking the removal of Om Birla as Lok Sabha Speaker, which was defeated by a voice vote. That defeat has not dampened the INDIA bloc's appetite for constitutional confrontation — if anything, it has sharpened it.

Private Members' Bills: A Packed Agenda With Significant Proposals

Later in the day, the Lok Sabha was scheduled to take up Private Members' Business — and the list of proposed Bills makes for significant reading. MPs were expected to introduce legislative proposals on a wide range of issues including a guaranteed minimum support price for farmers, prevention of mob lynching, welfare of fishermen, regulation of tour operators, rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits, and reservation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the private sector.

These are not government bills and most will not progress to become law in this session. But they serve as important signals of what is on the minds of Members of Parliament — and what the public wants debated at the national level.

What Is Left Before April 2: The Road Ahead

The Budget Session 2026 runs until April 2 and includes 30 sittings spread across 65 days. The second phase, which resumed on March 9 after a recess, has already produced enormous political drama — the Om Birla no-confidence vote, the CEC removal notices, and the LPG crisis confrontation — alongside significant financial legislation.

What remains on the agenda includes the Finance Bill 2026 — the most consequential piece of legislation of the session, which formally implements the budget tax proposals — along with departmental Demands for Grants across all major ministries and further legislative business that the government has outlined for the coming weeks.

If today's intensity is any guide, the final two weeks of the Budget Session promise to be some of the most turbulent — and consequential — days in India's parliamentary calendar this year.

In a bombshell statement, senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has called on Rahul Gandhi to quit INDIA bloc leadership, declaring West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee as the alliance's true face. The remarks, made during a public event in Kolkata on Sunday, have ignited fresh debates on opposition unity amid rising tensions.

Aiyar's Bold Claim on Mamata's Role

Aiyar asserted that without Mamata Banerjee, the "I, N, D, I, A" of the INDIA alliance would vanish. "Mamata Didi is the real leader holding it together," he said, emphasizing her pivotal role. He argued Rahul Gandhi INDIA bloc leadership should shift to regional heavyweights like Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin, Akhilesh Yadav, and Tejashwi Yadav for a stronger, decentralized model.

This comes just hours after Aiyar arrived in Kolkata, highlighting why Rahul Gandhi INDIA bloc leadership is under fire now. With Lok Sabha polls looming, regional parties demand more say, making this a timely flashpoint in Indian politics.

From TMC Insider to Congress Critic

Recalling his brief stint as Mamata Banerjee's "right-hand man" in 1997, Aiyar shared he served as TMC's first National Secretary for three weeks. "But as a non-Bengali, I realized it was a Bengali party and left," he explained. This personal anecdote underscores his respect for her influence.

• Key regional leaders Aiyar endorsed: MK Stalin, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav.
  
  

• His pitch: Let smaller parties lead to boost INDIA alliance cohesion.
  
  

Second Dig at Rahul in a Week

This is Aiyar's second swipe at Rahul Gandhi in six days. On Feb 16, he said he's "Gandhian, Nehruvian, Rajivian—but not Rahulian," citing a 30-year age gap and lack of collaboration. He later clarified it wasn't personal but questioned Rahul Gandhi INDIA bloc leadership suitability.

Strained Congress Ties Spark Backlash

Aiyar's comments follow an interview praising Stalin over Rahul for alliance coordination. Political analysts see this as exposing Congress's fading dominance in the INDIA bloc. "Regional satraps like Mamata Banerjee are gaining ground," says expert Prof. Amitabh Mattoo. "This could fracture opposition strategy."

Takeaway for readers: Watch for Congress responses—these rifts matter as INDIA bloc eyes 2029 polls. A collective leadership might unite diverse voices, but egos could derail it.

In conclusion, Aiyar's outburst signals deeper cracks. Will Rahul Gandhi step back from INDIA bloc leadership? Opposition watchers say unity hangs by a thread.