Sirsa MP, former Union Minister, Congress General Secretary and Congress Working Committee (CWC) member Kumari Selja has said that Parliament is not merely a platform for the government to present its views but the highest democratic institution representing the voice of the people and the right to dissent.

Commenting on the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, Selja said the continued confrontation between the ruling party and the Opposition was not conducive to a healthy parliamentary democracy.

She said it is the responsibility of the government and the Treasury Benches to ensure that the Opposition gets adequate opportunities to raise issues of public importance and participate meaningfully in parliamentary debates.

Referring to the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, Selja said he represents the mandate of millions of voters and should be given sufficient time to speak on important national issues in accordance with parliamentary traditions and rules. She added that disagreement should be viewed as a strength of democracy rather than its weakness.

Selja said the Congress has consistently upheld the dignity of Parliament, the Constitution and democratic institutions.

She maintained that debates, questioning of the government and constructive discussion are essential elements of parliamentary functioning, and cautioned against any attempt to sideline the Opposition merely on the basis of numerical strength.

She also expressed concern over the reported incident during an MP Pappu Yadav’s press conference, where media reports claimed that an individual allegedly threw footwear and was later found to be carrying a knife.

She described the incident as deeply disturbing and said any act of violence or attempted violence against an elected representative was unacceptable in a democracy.

Calling for a fair and time-bound investigation, Selja said strict legal action should be taken against anyone found guilty after due process. Political differences, she added, should be addressed through debate and dialogue rather than intimidation or violence.

She further said every Member of Parliament, opposition leader, journalist and citizen has the constitutional right to express their views freely and without fear.

According to her, the government must not only maintain law and order but also ensure an atmosphere where democratic dissent can be expressed safely.

Selja urged the Centre to engage with the Opposition to end the parliamentary deadlock, facilitate discussions on key national issues and ensure the security of all public representatives.

Photo Caption: Congress MP Kumari Selja calls for constructive parliamentary dialogue and protection of democratic institutions.

Haryana Athletes Bring Glory to India at Commonwealth Games: Kumari Selja

Kumari Selja congratulated Haryana’s athletes for their outstanding performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, where they secured 11 medals, including seven gold, two silver and two bronze.

She said the achievements of Haryana’s sportspersons, particularly in boxing and other disciplines, reflect their hard work, discipline and determination. Congratulating the medal winners, their families and coaches, Selja described the athletes’ success as an inspiration for millions of young Indians.

She said Haryana has consistently produced world-class athletes and expressed confidence that the state’s sportspersons would continue to bring honour to India by excelling on the international stage.

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