Opposition parties walked out of the Rajya Sabha on Monday (February 9, 2026), objecting to what they described as unfair treatment of Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who was reportedly prevented from completing his speech during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address.Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, attempted to bring up the matter as soon as the House convened. He also criticized Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal for addressing the media about the interim India-U.S. trade agreement instead of informing Parliament first.When proceedings resumed at noon for Question Hour, Mr. Kharge again tried to raise the issue. Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan permitted him to speak but advised him not to discuss events from the Lok Sabha. In response, Mr. Kharge argued that both Houses together form Parliament and that constitutional matters affecting either House deserved attention.The Chairman interrupted, referring to a previous ruling and recalling former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s view that one House should not debate the proceedings of the other. He then moved ahead with Question Hour.Despite this, Mr. Kharge and several Opposition members remained standing and insisted on being heard. As the Chair did not allow further discussion, Opposition MPs shouted slogans, alleging disrespect toward women members and accusing the ruling BJP of suppressing their voices.Members from most INDIA bloc parties — except the Trinamool Congress — joined the protest. After continuing their demonstrations for some time, the Opposition collectively walked out, while the House carried on with Question Hour.
Opposition Protests in Rajya Sabha
