Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, persisted in addressing the Ladakh standoff issue for the second consecutive day, despite objections from the Chair to only cite “authentic sources.” The Lok Sabha witnessed a tense atmosphere as opposition MPs accused the Centre of providing misleading information on the India-China matter. Gandhi, referring to a magazine article linked to a former Army Chief’s “unpublished book,” remained firm on discussing the Ladakh situation even after being advised against quoting news articles or magazines as per Parliamentary rules.
Gandhi, emphasizing his position as the LoP, expressed discontent over the term “permission” to speak, stating that as the LoP, he did not require permission to address the House. The opposition MPs continued to challenge the Chair’s rulings and demanded that the LoP be permitted to speak on the issue. Despite interruptions, Gandhi raised concerns about the conflict in Eastern Ladakh where Indian soldiers lost their lives, highlighting the need to discuss the Prime Minister’s response to the situation.
As the uproar persisted, the Chair urged the LoP to speak on the President’s address, but subsequent speakers from the opposition side declined to address the House. Amidst chaos and slogans, TDP MP G.M. Harish Balayogi attempted to speak on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address before the House was adjourned till 3:00 p.m.
