Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stressed the need to distinguish between “opposition” and “obstruction,” warning that frequent disruptions threaten democracy. Speaking at the All India Speakers’ Conference 2025, he highlighted low productivity in the Monsoon Session and urged lawmakers to uphold parliamentary dignity through debate, not obstruction.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Sunday emphasized the crucial need to distinguish between “opposition” and “obstruction” in parliamentary functioning, warning that democracy itself would be imperilled if legislatures do not run smoothly. His remarks came at the inauguration of the All India Speakers’ Conference 2025, where he urged lawmakers to protect the dignity of Parliament and state Assemblies.
Rijiju, in a veiled reference to the recently concluded Monsoon Session of Parliament, expressed concern over the steep decline in productivity due to frequent disruptions. “The Opposition has every right to dissect the government’s performance, but it is not appropriate to disrupt proceedings in Parliament,” he remarked, underlining the difference between constructive criticism and deliberate obstruction.
Parliamentary Productivity Concerns
The Monsoon Session, which began on July 21 and concluded on August 21, saw the Lok Sabha function for only 37 hours and seven minutes out of the scheduled 120 hours. Reports show that nearly 84 hours were lost to forced adjournments, one of the lowest productivity levels in recent times.
Rijiju warned that such disruptions diminish the role of legislatures, which he described as the “nerve centres of democracy.” He added, “Questions are likely to be raised about democracy if Parliament and Assemblies do not function smoothly. Vibrant Parliament and Assemblies are indispensable for a democracy.”
Veer Vitthalbhai Patel’s Legacy
The Minister highlighted that this year also marks the centenary of Veer Vitthalbhai Patel’s election as the first Indian Speaker of a legislative body. He said this milestone should inspire all elected representatives to uphold the dignity, impartiality, and authority of the Speaker’s office.
“It is difficult to rate which state Assembly functions the best,” Rijiju noted, pointing out that even small decisions—such as the conduct of Speakers, the use of Marshals, and adherence to legislative conventions—make a significant difference to the credibility of any House.
Balancing Debate and Discipline
While acknowledging that uproar and heated exchanges are natural in a democracy where diverse voices converge, Rijiju firmly rejected the practice of stalling parliamentary business. “There can be no excuse for disrupting transaction of business. Opposition is the right of the members, but obstruction aimed at stopping the nation from functioning is not acceptable,” he stressed.
He urged legislators to use the platform of Parliament and Assemblies for meaningful debate and discussion rather than disruption. According to him, legislatures are the “platforms for crucial discussions on the country’s thought and views,” and must remain functional to protect democratic ideals.
Future Initiatives
Rijiju also revealed that he is considering organizing a conference of Parliamentary Affairs Ministers in the coming days. This initiative would focus on brainstorming measures to ensure the smooth functioning of legislatures across the country and on finding solutions to address frequent disruptions.
He also expressed hope that the All India Speakers’ Conference would generate constructive suggestions for tackling the rising trend of disruptions in both Parliament and Assemblies.
A Call for Democratic Responsibility
The Minister’s comments reflect a broader concern within the government and policy circles over declining legislative productivity, which hampers the passage of important bills and delays critical policy discussions. Observers have noted that repeated walkouts, adjournments, and sloganeering not only waste valuable time but also erode public faith in parliamentary democracy.
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By drawing a sharp line between opposition and obstruction, Rijiju reminded lawmakers of their dual responsibility—to hold the government accountable, but also to ensure that legislative business continues uninterrupted for the greater good of the nation.
As India commemorates a century since Veer Vitthalbhai Patel’s historic election as Speaker, Rijiju’s call serves as a timely reminder: democracy flourishes not through disruption, but through disciplined debate and responsible opposition.
