New Delhi erupted in political drama on Thursday as Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, unleashed his frustration on journalists probing him about a potential privilege motion against him. The incident unfolded in the Parliament premises, where Gandhi urged reporters to maintain ‘purposeful’ journalism and uphold the sanctity of their profession.
The trigger was Gandhi’s fiery speech in Lok Sabha the previous day, where he accused the government of surrendering to foreign powers and betraying ‘Mother India’ in trade deals. BJP members vehemently objected, labeling his remarks unparliamentary and demanding their expungement from the records. Talks of a privilege motion surfaced, though the ruling party later backed off.
When questioned about the motion, Gandhi didn’t hold back. ‘You don’t work entirely for BJP. At least try some purposeful reporting. You’re responsible people in the media; stay purposeful. You can’t run your entire show every day on one word fed by them,’ he retorted sharply.
Congress defended Gandhi, insisting no parliamentary rules were breached. They argued he had every right to critique the government’s handling of energy and farmer interests in the US trade deal. The exchange highlights deepening media-politics tensions amid heated debates on national policy.
As Parliament sessions intensify, such confrontations underscore the high stakes in India’s democratic discourse. Gandhi’s outburst serves as a reminder of the expectations leaders have from the fourth estate in an era of polarized narratives.