Seeking discussion on energy security in Rajya Sabha, Opposition walks out

New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha on Monday was marked by protests and walkout by the Opposition after their demand for a short duration discussion on emerging challenges to India's energy security was declined by the Chairman. As soon as the House resumed work after offering condolences to members who died recently, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge stood up to speak with permission from chairman CP Radhakrishnan. Kharge sought permission under Rule 176 to discuss the impact of the escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia on India's economy and energy supplies.

"India meets nearly 55% of its crude oil requirements through imports from West Asia, and any escalation will have implications for our economic stability," Kharge said.



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Kharge also raised the issue of safety of Indian nationals staying in the Gulf region. He said nearly one crore Indians work in West Asia, and their livelihoods depend on stability in the region. "India receives about $51 billion annually in remittances from Gulf countries, which support millions of families. Developments in the region have started showing its impact on our domestic market," Kharge said. He requested the Chair to grant permission for a short-term discussion.

However, the Chair declined the demand to allow a discussion immediately following which Congress and other Opposition party leaders started shouting slogans. At that point, external affairs minister S Jaishankar began his statement on the situation in West Asia. The Opposition members first protested and later staged a walkout.

After Jaishankar's statement, leader of the House, JP Nadda criticised the Opposition's conduct, calling their behaviour irresponsible.

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"The Opposition is more interested in creating anarchy and hooliganism in the House rather than participating in constructive discussions," Nadda said. He said Opposition members had walked out during debates on electoral reforms in December, discussions related to India's space programme and the Viksit Bharat vision, and during a debate on 'Operation Sindoor'.