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Congress MP Sukhdev Bhagat described the alleged attack on Pappu Yadav as an assault on democracy and freedom of expression. He said that disagreeing with someone’s views does not necessitate violent or inappropriate behavior. In a democracy, everyone has the right to express their views, and disagreement should be addressed through dialogue and democracy. He demanded that the government take this matter seriously and take strict action against the culprits.

Responding to key bills being introduced in Parliament, Sukhdev Bhagat said that important legislation, such as the one to increase the number of Supreme Court judges and the amendment to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, should be widely and meaningfully discussed. He alleged that the government, using its majority, often passes bills by voice vote, depriving the opposition of adequate opportunity to present its views.

He said that in the past, during some bills, the Leader of the Opposition was not given full time, and the debate was limited to accusations and counter-accusations. He said that the purpose of Parliament is not just to pass bills but also to hear the views of all parties and strengthen democratic debate. Limiting debate based on numerical strength is not in keeping with democratic traditions.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari condemned the alleged attack on Pappu Yadav, saying that freedom of expression is democracy’s greatest strength. He said that while it’s natural to disagree with someone’s views, it cannot be responded to with violence, abuse, or any other form of aggressive reaction. He added that if Pappu Yadav has expressed his views on any platform, he should respond with logic and words.

Pramod Tiwari said that in a democracy, debate and dialogue are the only means to resolve differences. He added that Pappu Yadav has been a six-time MP and listening to his opinions is part of the democratic process. He clarified that any form of violence is contrary to democratic values.

Responding to a question on the legislative agenda for Parliament, Pramod Tiwari said it was not yet clear whether four bills would be introduced in the House. He added that a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee is scheduled for 1:05 pm, which will determine how many bills will be discussed in the House. He added that detailed information on this matter would be provided only after the meeting.

Regarding the alleged attack on Pappu Yadav, JB Mather also called it completely unacceptable. He stated that in a democracy, there are many constitutional and peaceful ways to register protest. He added that protests on any issue, whether to the Ram Temple or any other sensitive topic, can be carried out through writing letters, publishing articles, demonstrating with placards and banners, or raising slogans, but there should be no place for violence or intimidation.

Meanwhile, Sukhdev Bhagat also commented on the vote count for the Bankipur Assembly by-election and the political prospects of Jan Suraj founder Prashant Kishore. He said that in a democracy, everyone has the right to contest elections and express their views to the public. Wishing Prashant Kishore well, he said that the public will now decide how much they trust his promises and strategy. He also said that this will be an important political test for Jan Suraj as a new party.

Meanwhile, Congress MP J.B. Mather described the alleged use of AK-47s and pellet guns on students as serious, saying that the Congress and India Alliance stand firm on their stance on the matter. He demanded that the Union Home Minister appear in both houses of Parliament and give a detailed statement on the entire matter. According to him, this is a very serious issue, and there has been no clear response from the government so far.

J.B. Mather stated that the opposition will continue to raise this issue because the government must be held accountable for matters to students. He alleged that the government’s silence despite such serious allegations raises many questions.