The government has decided not to move a privilege motion against Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on the proposed India–US interim trade deal, even as certain portions of his speech are set to be expunged from the Lok Sabha record, sources indicated on Thursday amid continued disruptions during the Budget Session.
The Lok Sabha witnessed repeated adjournments during Question Hour as Opposition members protested against the proposed trade pact. Several MPs entered the Well of the House, raising slogans and demanding that the agreement be withdrawn.
The controversy stems from Gandhi’s remarks during Wednesday’s Budget debate, in which he accused the government of “selling Bharat Mata” and described the proposed trade deal as a “wholesale surrender” compromising national interests.
Defending his comments, Gandhi said he had spoken in the national interest and raised concerns about the potential impact of the agreement on farmers, small businesses and workers. “The country has a right to know the truth about any agreement that affects its future,” he said, stressing the need for transparency in trade negotiations.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju termed Gandhi’s remarks against the media and the government “wrong” and alleged that some Congress MPs behaved inappropriately in the Speaker’s chamber. Responding to Gandhi’s reference to sensitive matters, Rijiju asked, “If everything is to be discussed in public, how can you maintain the security for the nation?”
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Rijiju had earlier indicated that a privilege notice would be moved, calling the comments a “serious breach of privilege”. However, sources said the government has now decided against initiating formal proceedings. Portions of Gandhi’s speech are likely to be removed from official records on the grounds that certain allegations were not properly substantiated.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal accused Gandhi of misleading Parliament and demanded an apology, alleging he had incorrectly claimed that Bangladesh secured better trade benefits than India. Union Minister Giriraj Singh also launched a sharp attack, accusing the Congress leader of spreading falsehoods and attempting to create unrest.
In the Rajya Sabha, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticised the move to expunge parts of Gandhi’s speech, terming it an attempt to silence dissent. He said Opposition leaders had a duty to question agreements that could affect the country’s economic sovereignty.
Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said the party was ready to face any privilege motion, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra rejected allegations of misconduct by Congress MPs.
The standoff has intensified political tensions during the Budget Session, with both sides trading charges over parliamentary conduct and the trade agreement.
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