Day 2 erupts in Lok Sabha
The second day of the Parliament Winter Session 2025 witnessed intense disruptions in the Lok Sabha as opposition MPs continued their protest with the slogan “vote chor, gaddi chhod.” The chant, directed at the ruling government, echoed across the chamber for several hours, halting normal proceedings and preventing members from participating in scheduled discussions.
Opposition leaders stated that their protest was a response to perceived irregularities in the electoral process and alleged lapses in governance. They argued that their chants were a symbolic way to express dissent and demand accountability on issues affecting democracy and voter confidence.
The disruption and its impact
The continuous chanting created a tense environment within the house. Ministers and ruling party MPs were unable to deliver speeches or move forward with legislative business as usual. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha repeatedly called for order but faced challenges in restoring decorum, highlighting the depth of frustration among opposition members.
Security personnel remained alert and monitored the situation carefully to ensure that proceedings did not escalate into physical confrontations. Despite repeated warnings, the opposition remained steadfast, demonstrating the intensity of their protest and the seriousness with which they approached their grievances.
Opposition perspective
Opposition leaders framed the protest as a fight for transparency and fairness in governance. They claimed that citizens’ trust in democratic institutions was at stake and that vocal demonstrations in Parliament were necessary to draw attention to alleged lapses. The slogan “vote chor, gaddi chhod” was intended to resonate with the public, expressing their view that elected representatives should be held accountable for their promises and conduct.
Several opposition MPs later addressed media outside Parliament, reiterating their concerns about the integrity of electoral rolls and questioning whether all processes were conducted in a fair and transparent manner. They emphasized that their protest was non-violent and aimed at raising awareness among citizens about their rights and the responsibilities of elected officials.
Government response
The ruling party responded cautiously to the protests, stating that they respected the right to dissent but emphasized that disruption in Parliament affects the nation’s legislative work. Ministers highlighted the importance of debate and discussion within the framework of parliamentary rules and procedures.
Some government members described the protest as “theatrical” and urged opposition parties to utilize established mechanisms like question hours, debates and committee discussions to express their grievances. They reiterated that allegations should be addressed through dialogue and evidence rather than slogans that prevent normal functioning of the house.
Broader implications for democracy
The Day 2 disruptions underscore the challenges of balancing democratic dissent with legislative productivity. While protests are a core aspect of parliamentary democracy, repeated interruptions can delay bills, budget discussions and other crucial parliamentary functions. The standoff raises questions about how opposition and ruling parties can engage constructively while still holding each other accountable.
Observers note that such visible protests reflect underlying political tension and can influence public opinion. Citizens watching proceedings on television or through media coverage are likely to interpret these events in ways that shape perceptions of governance, accountability and political maturity.
Looking ahead
As the Winter Session continues, attention will be on whether the opposition maintains its vocal stance or if dialogue can emerge between parties to restore order. How both sides manage dissent, debate and decision-making will determine the effectiveness of the session and the public’s trust in parliamentary processes.
The “vote chor, gaddi chhod” chants serve as a reminder that democracy is not only about elections but also about holding elected representatives accountable in real time. The coming days of the Winter Session will reveal whether protest and dialogue can coexist in India’s vibrant parliamentary system.
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