Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha, underscored the necessity for a responsible Opposition, advocating for meaningful debate over superficial slogans. “India requires a responsible Opposition. People desire substance, not slogans; they want debate and diligence, not disturbances in Parliament,” he stated.
Welcoming the newly elected parliamentarians, PM Modi described the day as a significant milestone in India’s democratic evolution. Representing Varanasi, he stressed the importance of the current session, emphasizing its potential to drive India towards the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Reflecting on the significance of the recent elections, Modi remarked, “India experienced the world’s largest elections, conducted with great enthusiasm, marking a proud moment. This election was particularly noteworthy as, for the second time since independence, a government has been re-elected for a third consecutive term.”
#WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "The people of the country expect good steps from the opposition. I hope that the opposition will live up to the expectations of the common citizens of the country to maintain the dignity of democracy. People do not want drama, disturbance. People… pic.twitter.com/j0IFFtpkVU
— ANI (@ANI) June 24, 2024
The Prime Minister also highlighted the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, observed on June 25, calling it a ‘black spot’ on India’s democracy when the Constitution was disregarded. “Tomorrow is June 25. For those dedicated to the dignity of the Indian Constitution and democratic traditions, it is a day that can never be forgotten. It marks the completion of 50 years since the black spot on Indian democracy when the Constitution was rejected, destroyed, and the country was turned into a prison through the declaration of Emergency,” he said.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment, PM Modi assured, “I want to assure the people that our government will work three times harder in its third term and deliver three times more.”
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the notable presence of young parliamentarians, underscoring their role in shaping the nation’s future.
The first session, running until July 3, is expected to outline PM Modi’s plans for his third term. It is also anticipated to see the formal appointment of Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of the Opposition, a position vacant since 2014.
