On March 16, 2026, former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda expressed deep concern over the disruptive behavior exhibited by opposition parties, particularly Congress members, during the ongoing Budget session of Parliament. In a letter addressed to Congress Legislative Party President Sonia Gandhi, he highlighted the alarming trend of continuous interruptions and disorderly conduct by opposition members, which he believes undermines the dignity of Parliament and the core principles of parliamentary democracy.
Deve Gowda emphasized that he has spent a significant portion of his 65-year public life in the opposition and understands the responsibilities that come with it. He stated that while opposition parties have the right to express dissent, it should never come at the cost of decorum and established traditions. He expressed his disappointment with the current behavior of opposition members, who have resorted to shouting slogans, displaying placards, and staging protests within and outside the Parliament premises.
In his letter, Deve Gowda underscored the importance of upholding the sanctity of parliamentary proceedings, referencing the foundational principles laid down by leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, B.R. Ambedkar, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. He noted that in his extensive parliamentary experience, he has never witnessed such disorder and disruption.
The former Prime Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by opposition leaders but stressed that there are appropriate methods for protest that do not involve disrespecting the parliamentary process. He urged members to adhere to parliamentary rules and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the dignity of the institution.
Deve Gowda also criticized the practice of consuming tea and snacks on the steps of Parliament, calling it inappropriate and a departure from the respectful behavior exhibited by past opposition parties. He lamented that the current situation is causing significant harm to the reputation of parliamentary democracy in India.
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