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Parliament –  The Lok Sabha witnessed repeated interruptions on Tuesday, forcing the House to adjourn proceedings until 2 PM as opposition members raised strong objections over multiple issues, including the alleged demolition activity at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi and recent international trade developments.

The disruptions began shortly after the House convened for the day, setting the tone for a turbulent session that allowed only limited parliamentary business to be conducted.

Opposition Protests Trigger Early Adjournment

Earlier in the day, the House was adjourned until noon following loud protests by opposition MPs. Members raised concerns over a range of issues, including the announcement of a US-India trade agreement by former US President Donald Trump and domestic matters linked to heritage redevelopment.

When proceedings resumed at 12 PM, the situation escalated further as members of the Samajwadi Party vocally opposed the ongoing redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi. They alleged that the project disrespected the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar, the 18th-century ruler of the Malwa kingdom who had undertaken the first major renovation of the ghat in 1791.

Allegations of Heritage Insult Spark Heated Debate

SP MPs claimed that the redevelopment amounted to an insult to Holkar’s contribution to the site, which holds deep religious and historical significance. Holkar is also remembered for her role in restoring the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, making her legacy particularly relevant to the region.

During the protest, some members displayed portraits of Holkar inside the House. This prompted an objection from ruling party member Krishna Prasad Tenneti, who stated that displaying such materials violated parliamentary rules. Despite repeated appeals from the Chair, opposition members continued their demonstration, leading to another adjournment until 2 PM.

Claims and Counterclaims Over Demolition Drive

Outside Parliament, protests have continued against the redevelopment plan at Manikarnika Ghat. Critics allege that a century-old idol of Ahilyabai Holkar was damaged during the demolition drive. However, district authorities have firmly denied these claims, stating that no such damage occurred and that all heritage elements were protected during the process.

The administration has maintained that the redevelopment aims to improve public facilities while preserving the site’s historical character, a claim contested by opposition leaders and local activists.

Dispute Over Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks Adds to Tension

Adding to the unrest, opposition MPs also raised objections to Speaker Om Birla’s decision to disallow Congress leader Rahul Gandhi from quoting an unpublished memoir by former Army Chief General M M Naravane during a previous session. Opposition parties argued that the refusal restricted parliamentary debate, while the Chair cited established rules governing references to unpublished material.

Disruptions During Obituary Reference Draw Criticism

The protests intensified even during an obituary reference made by the Speaker for Surupsing Hirya Naik, a former member of the sixth and 17th Lok Sabha and a past member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Speaker Birla urged members to maintain decorum as the House observed a minute of silence.

Following the tribute, several MPs entered the well of the House and raised slogans, including chants critical of the government. Expressing displeasure, Birla described the disruptions as deliberate and said such conduct undermined parliamentary dignity.

Question Hour Cut Short Amid Uproar

Due to the continuous interruptions, only one question could be addressed during Question Hour. Birla later adjourned proceedings for nearly an hour, stressing that Question Hour is a crucial mechanism that enables the opposition to hold the government accountable on policy and governance issues.

Trade Deal Announcement Mentioned During Protests

Among the issues cited during the protests was the recently announced India-US trade agreement. Under the deal, the United States will reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from a combined 50 percent to 18 percent. Trump announced the agreement on Monday following a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Speaker reiterated his appeal for cooperation, urging members to allow the House to function smoothly and address public concerns through structured debate.