Lok Sabha to Hold 16-Hour Debate on Operation Sindoor, Modi Likely to Participate
The Lok Sabha will conduct a special 16-hour debate on July 28, focusing on the Pahalgam terror attack and the recent Operation Sindoor, as announced by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to lead the discussion, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to participate during the proceedings.
On the following day, July 29, the Rajya Sabha will engage in a similar 16-hour debate, with External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar taking part. Modi might also speak in the Upper House, depending on the debate's progression.
This decision came after a Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting, led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, where it was agreed to allow a comprehensive debate on these critical national security matters. Rijiju highlighted that the government has been open to discussions since the start of the Monsoon Session, despite ongoing disruptions from the Opposition.
The debate will primarily center on Operation Sindoor, followed by other national issues. Key contributions are expected from senior leaders including Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP MPs Nishikant Dubey and Anurag Thakur, as well as regional party representatives like TDP’s Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu and GM Harish Balayogi. Akhilesh Yadav and Rajiv Rai will represent the Samajwadi Party.
The Opposition has called for clarity from the Prime Minister regarding Operation Sindoor and former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims about mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Modi’s involvement is viewed as a crucial move to address these concerns directly in Parliament.
The discussions in both Houses are anticipated to cover a broad range of strategic, diplomatic, and internal security issues. This represents a significant moment in the ongoing Monsoon Session, which has experienced limited legislative progress due to frequent adjournments and protests from Opposition parties.
As the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are set to reconvene on July 28 and 29 respectively, political analysts expect an intense and pivotal week ahead in Parliament.
