NEW DELHI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a productive Monsoon Session of India’s Parliament on Monday, urging lawmakers to focus on discussions and legislative work as the session began amid political tensions and protests outside the legislature.
Addressing media representatives at the Parliament premises before the start of the session, Modi said the country needed meaningful debate and cooperation among lawmakers. The prime minister’s remarks were made as Parliament reopened for its scheduled Monsoon Session.
Modi highlighted recent national and international developments and said parliamentary proceedings should contribute to the welfare of citizens. According to a statement released by his office, he linked the session’s expected productivity with broader national progress and called for constructive discussions inside the House.
The session opened against the backdrop of political activity in New Delhi, including demonstrations by youth-led groups near Parliament. Supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party movement gathered in the capital over demands related to education issues and accountability from the government, according to reports.
Opposition parties have used parliamentary sessions to raise concerns on issues including governance, public policy and government accountability, while the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has emphasized the need for legislative cooperation and debate.
Modi’s government is expected to pursue its legislative agenda during the session, while opposition lawmakers have indicated they will seek discussions on issues they consider significant. Parliamentary proceedings are subject to the rules and scheduling decisions of the two Houses.
The prime minister has previously used pre-session media addresses to appeal for cooperation among political parties and urge lawmakers to prioritize national issues over partisan disputes.
The Monsoon Session will continue with scheduled parliamentary business, including debates and consideration of government and private members’ matters as determined by the House authorities.
