Deadlock in Rajya Sabha as Opposition Demands Amit Shah’s Apology Over Student Protests
Legislative business ground to a halt for a sixth straight day as the Opposition and Treasury benches clashed over policing and exam integrity. Lawmakers blocked the introduction of two significant bills, demanding ministerial accountability for recent actions against student protesters.
Legislative Paralysis in the Upper House
The Rajya Sabha faced a complete washout on July 27, 2026, marking the sixth consecutive day of the Monsoon Session where no formal business could be conducted. Despite a packed agenda featuring significant legislative amendments, persistent shouting and procedural disagreements forced multiple adjournments before the House was shuttered for the day.
Dispute Over National Symbols and Exam Integrity
The afternoon session devolved into chaos when Deputy Chairman Harivansh attempted to move the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This legislation intended to grant the National Song the same status as the National Anthem. Opposition members, including John Brittas, Pramod Tiwari, and Tiruchi Siva, immediately challenged the move. While Siva labeled the bill unconstitutional, others demanded the session pivot to address alleged police atrocities. When Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai moved the bill despite these objections, the resulting din forced an immediate recess.
Later, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju attempted to introduce the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. This bill aims to address the widespread concerns regarding the NEET paper leak. Rijiju criticized the Congress party for blocking debate on a matter affecting the nation’s youth, stating that the government remained ready for open discussion. “The youth of the country are watching,” Rijiju noted, adding that the Prime Minister had prioritized these reforms.
Opposition Demands Ministerial Accountability
The core of the impasse rests on a demand for Union Home Minister Amit Shah to personally address the House. Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition, insisted that a statement and apology from Shah regarding police actions against students are prerequisites for any further debate. Kharge highlighted that the use of force, including alleged pellet gun use against protesters, was unprecedented in India's history.
- Multiple adjournment motions under Rule 267 were rejected by Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan earlier in the day.
- The House was repeatedly paused at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5:15 p.m. before final adjournment.
- Government officials accused the Opposition of hypocrisy, claiming they avoid formal debates while alleging a lack of parliamentary freedom to the media.
Source: The Hindu — Home
