The Rajya Sabha ended its sixth straight day of the monsoon session without taking up any business. Opposition lawmakers demanded an apology from Home Minister Amit Shah for police action against protesting students, while Minister Kiren Rijiju urged the Congress to allow debate on the National Anthem Bill.
Key Takeaways
- Rajya Sabha adjourned for the sixth straight day with no business taken up
- Opposition demanded Amit Shah apologise for police action on student protesters
- Kiren Rijiju appealed to Congress for discussion on the Public Exams Bill
Session Overview
On July 27, 2026, the Rajya Sabha concluded the sixth consecutive day of the monsoon session without debating any agenda. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was listed, but opposition members insisted that Home Minister Amit Shah apologise for the police crackdown on students protesting a NEET paper leak.
Bill Stalled
When the House reconvened at 2 p.m., Deputy Speaker Harivansh invited Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai to move the bill that elevates the national anthem to the status of a national song. Opposition MPs Pramod Tiwari, John Brittas and Tiruchi Siva raised objections, citing police atrocities and constitutional concerns. The Deputy Chairman dismissed the points of order, and the bill was moved amid loud chants demanding Shah’s apology.
Government’s Appeal
At 5:15 p.m., Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju appealed to the Congress to discuss the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. “The youth are watching,” he said, urging the opposition to allow debate. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge countered that an apology from the Home Minister should precede any discussion.
Historical Background
Prolonged adjournments in the Rajya Sabha are rare. The last comparable episode occurred in 1999 when multiple opposition motions led to repeated suspensions of business. Such standoffs highlight the delicate balance between government initiatives and parliamentary dissent in India’s democratic framework.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that prolonged adjournments erode public confidence in legislative institutions and may signal deeper political rifts ahead of the upcoming general elections.
“When parliamentary procedure stalls, the very essence of democratic accountability is put at risk.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can the National Anthem Bill still be passed?
A: Yes, if the opposition withdraws its demand for an apology and Congress agrees to debate, the bill can be reconsidered.
Q2: What other major bills are expected in the remaining monsoon session?
A: Analysts anticipate legislation on education reforms and public health initiatives to dominate the agenda.