Priyanka Gandhi Accuses Government of Suppressing Opposition, Says Democracy Under Threat

NEW DELHI, July 22: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the government, alleging that democratic principles were being undermined as opposition leaders were not being allowed to raise issues in Parliament.

Wearing black as a mark of solidarity with protesting students, Priyanka Gandhi claimed that discussions on students’ concerns were being prevented and described the current situation inside Parliament as “undemocratic”.

She said the right to express opinions and hold peaceful protests were essential elements of democracy, arguing that raising public concerns through demonstrations was not against democratic values.

“There is nothing undemocratic about peaceful protest. What is happening inside Parliament and on the streets is what raises questions,” Priyanka Gandhi told reporters at the Parliament complex.

Her remarks came a day after Congress leaders and other opposition parties held a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence over alleged police action against students during a demonstration.

Opposition Raises Issue of Parliamentary Debate

Priyanka Gandhi alleged that opposition members were being prevented from speaking during parliamentary proceedings.

She claimed that whenever the Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi or other opposition leaders attempted to raise issues, they were stopped from speaking.

“The Leader of Opposition is not allowed to speak, and other opposition leaders also face restrictions,” she said.

Questioning the process of seeking government approval before allowing discussions, she asked why debates in Parliament required such permission.

According to Priyanka Gandhi, Parliament should provide a platform for discussion on matters affecting citizens, particularly young people and students.

Congress Supports Student Protests

The Congress leader defended the students’ demonstrations, saying their demands represented concerns shared by young people, parents and teachers across the country.

She said students work hard to build their careers and secure their future, but their concerns were being ignored.

“What happened to us during the protest is not important. The focus should remain on the students and whether their issues are being addressed,” she said.

Priyanka Gandhi claimed that the protests were based on genuine concerns and that students were only seeking their rights.

Attack Over Education Funding And Economic Priorities

The Congress general secretary also criticised the government’s financial priorities, comparing spending on youth and education with loan write-offs involving major industrial groups.

She claimed that while students, farmers and economically weaker sections were struggling for support, large corporate groups had received significant financial relief.

Priyanka Gandhi said the government should focus more on issues affecting young people, including education, employment opportunities and future security.

Opposition Leaders Detained During PM Residence Protest

The controversy intensified after several opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, were detained during a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on Tuesday.

The demonstration was organised to highlight alleged police action against students and demand accountability from the government.

Authorities moved quickly after the protest took place in a high-security area. Officials attempted to persuade the opposition leaders to end the demonstration, but talks did not result in an agreement.

Police later removed and detained several leaders who continued their protest.

Rahul Gandhi was taken to a stadium in Delhi before being released after a few hours, while Priyanka Gandhi and some other MPs were taken to a police station. They were also released later.

Rahul Gandhi Demands Debate On Student Issues

After his release, Rahul Gandhi said the opposition decided to stage a protest outside the Prime Minister’s residence after it became clear that the government was not ready to allow a discussion on the students’ concerns in Parliament.

He said the demonstration was aimed at drawing national attention to allegations of police action against students.

Rahul Gandhi demanded action against those responsible for alleged misconduct, withdrawal of cases filed against protesters and accountability from government officials.

He also called for a debate on the issue in both Houses of Parliament, arguing that opposition parties should be given an opportunity to present their views.

Political Tensions Rise During Parliament Session

The confrontation between the government and opposition comes amid increasing political tensions during the ongoing parliamentary session.

While opposition parties have accused the government of avoiding important discussions, the ruling side has maintained that parliamentary proceedings must follow established rules and procedures.

The latest dispute has further intensified disagreements over freedom of debate, public protests and the functioning of democratic institutions.

With opposition parties continuing to press for discussion on student-related concerns, the issue is expected to remain a major point of political debate in the coming days.