New Delhi is buzzing with fresh calls for parliamentary fairness as Samajwadi Party MP Ikra Hasan sharply criticizes the handling of opposition voices in the Lok Sabha. Speaking exclusively, Hasan insisted that Speaker Om Birla, as the guardian of the House, must extend equal protection to opposition members.
Hasan highlighted a disturbing pattern where opposition leaders, including the Leader of Opposition, are repeatedly silenced during sessions. ‘The Leader of Opposition holds a vital role, often dubbed the shadow Prime Minister,’ she emphasized. ‘Questioning the government is the beauty of our democracy, and it’s the Speaker’s duty to keep it alive.’
She urged the Speaker to grant opposition members their rightful space to speak, warning that failing to do so threatens the health of India’s democracy. Pointing to the ongoing budget session, Hasan accused the government of dodging discussions to hide its shortcomings. ‘No meaningful debate has been allowed,’ she said. ‘The opposition has every right to scrutinize the budget, yet we’re muzzled.’
Turning to state politics, Hasan slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for favoritism towards those close to the BJP. ‘People linked to the ruling party receive VIP treatment while law and order is turned into a joke,’ she declared. Confident in public sentiment, she predicted a strong backlash against the BJP in the 2027 assembly elections.
As tensions simmer in Parliament, Hasan’s outspoken remarks underscore the growing rift between the ruling coalition and opposition ranks, raising questions about the future of deliberative democracy in India.