Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (December 1) addressed the media outside Parliament ahead of the Winter Session, urging Opposition parties to shed post-election frustration and participate positively in legislative business. The Prime Minister said the session should reflect the maturity of Indian democracy and contribute meaningfully to policy-making.
Calling the Winter Session an important platform for shaping national priorities, PM Modi said, “This winter session isn’t just a ritual… India has lived democracy. The zeal and enthusiasm of democracy have been expressed time and again in such a way that faith in democracy continues to grow stronger.”
He emphasised that Parliament must function smoothly and not become hostage to political bitterness. Taking aim at the Opposition, he said they seemed “unsettled” after the recent Bihar election results and should not allow disappointment to dictate their conduct. PM Modi urged them to avoid repeating the deadlock seen during the monsoon session.
Encouraging political parties to focus on legislation rather than rivalry, he remarked, “The panic of defeat should not become a ground for debate. As public representatives, we should handle the responsibility and expectations of the people with utmost balance and responsibility, while thinking about the future.”
The Prime Minister reiterated that the Opposition’s role remains crucial for a healthy democracy, calling on them to raise substantial issues instead of resorting to disruption. He added, “Some parties are unable to digest defeat. I thought enough time had passed since the Bihar results and they might have settled down. But from what I heard yesterday, it seems defeat has troubled them.”
PM Modi also cautioned that Parliament should serve as an institution of delivery, not theatrics. “There are many places to do drama and sloganeering… but not here. Negativity might sometimes help in politics, but I expect them to focus on nation-building,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of inclusiveness within parliamentary proceedings, he appealed to senior MPs across parties to create space for younger and first-time parliamentarians. He said many newly elected members felt discouraged because they lacked the opportunity to raise constituency-specific issues.
“First-time MPs, irrespective of party, must be given a chance. We should take this seriously,” PM Modi said, adding that Parliament must remain a forum for meaningful debate, not an arena for political showmanship.
