Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar Monday extended warm greetings to members as the 268th Session of the Rajya Sabha set off, highlighting the nation’s unity in the face of challenges.
Making a statement at the start of the Monsoon Session, Dhankhar said: “A thriving democracy cannot sustain constant acrimony. Political tension must be reduced, as confrontation is not the essence of politics. While political parties may pursue the same goals through different approaches, no one in India opposes the nation’s interests.”
“I urge all political parties to foster bonhomie and mutual respect, avoiding unbecoming language or personal attacks against leaders on television or elsewhere. Such behavior contradicts our civilisational essence,” he insisted.
Referring to the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent Operation Sindoor, he emphasised the bravery of the armed forces and the solidarity of the people in protecting the Republic’s unity and integrity.
“The nation stood united after the Pahalgam terror attack, backing Operation Sindoor to neutralise terrorist hideouts,” he said.
The Chairman also expressed deep sorrow over the plane crash on June 12, claiming 240 lives, and offered condolences to bereaved families.
He further urged political parties to foster bonhomie and mutual respect and avoid personal attacks, emphasising dialogue and discussion over conflict.
“A thriving democracy cannot sustain constant acrimony. Political tension must be reduced, as confrontation is not the essence of politics. Dialogue and discussion, not conflict, are the way forward,” said Dhankhar, asserting that “India’s historical strength lies in discourse, dialogue, and deliberation, which should guide our Parliament.”
The Monsoon Session, which kicked off today, is expected to be a wild ride with the BJP-led government facing off against opposition parties, with tempestuous confrontations expected both in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.