New Delhi witnessed a tumultuous end to the first phase of the Parliament’s Budget Session on Friday, drawing sharp criticism from Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi. In an exclusive conversation, she accused the Central government of undermining democratic processes, turning what should have been a platform for vital national discourse into a chaotic spectacle.
Chaturvedi didn’t mince words, declaring the session a ‘stain on history’ etched in ‘black letters.’ She highlighted how essential debates on pressing issues were stifled amid relentless disruptions. ‘The House didn’t function properly,’ she stated emphatically. ‘Expectations were high for raising critical questions, but none materialized.’
A particularly contentious moment she referenced was the interruption of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi while quoting from a former Army Chief’s book on the Galwan clash and military decisions. Chaturvedi pointed out that the general has authored multiple books on his tenure, yet Gandhi’s attempt to read excerpts was branded anti-national and halted abruptly.
The MP also lambasted the Prime Minister’s absence during the thanks motion on the President’s address. She condemned remarks directed at women MPs and the suspension of opposition members, painting a picture of a session marred by partisanship. On the Union Budget, Chaturvedi called it ‘uncomfortable for the common people,’ criticizing its neglect of inflation and public woes.
Touching on foreign relations, she expressed alarm over deteriorating India-Bangladesh ties, alleging targeted attacks and lynchings against minorities, especially Hindus. As the session concludes its first leg, Chaturvedi’s remarks underscore a deepening divide in parliamentary proceedings, raising questions about the health of India’s democracy.