Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai has strongly criticised the central government amid continuing disruptions in the Lok Sabha, asserting that the opposition is ready for discussion but is being deliberately denied the opportunity to speak. In an exclusive interaction, Rai said that if the Leader of the Opposition is not allowed to present views in the House, the opposition will not allow proceedings to continue smoothly. Calling the situation “deeply unfortunate,” Rai stated that such restrictions are against democratic values. He claimed that this is the first time he has witnessed a Parliament where opposition members are allegedly stopped from quoting books, constitutional articles, or even mentioning sensitive international issues. According to him, if the ruling party does not want to hear dissenting voices, it should “openly declare authoritarian rule.” Rai also reacted sharply to personal and ideological attacks, saying that debates have now turned into “book versus book” politics. He alleged that leaders who had no role in India’s freedom struggle are using inappropriate language against those who sacrificed for the nation. He added that historical facts cannot be erased and warned that continued suppression of opposition voices would only escalate tensions in the House. When asked whether disruptions would continue, Rai said the responsibility lies entirely with the ruling party, reiterating that the opposition is prepared for constructive debate if given space.
