Amid continued disruptions in Parliament over the contentious SIR (Smart Identification Rollout) issue, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi lashed out at the Opposition on Monday, accusing them of undermining national institutions and deliberately stalling legislative business.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Joshi said the Opposition parties are showing a consistent lack of trust in democratic institutions. “These people have no faith in the Election Commission, Supreme Court, High Court, or even the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG),” he said.

The Minister criticized the Opposition for demanding a debate on Operation Sindoor, the government's digital voter ID verification initiative, but then not allowing the House to function even after the government agreed to a discussion. “They first demanded a discussion on Operation Sindoor — we agreed. But before that, they wasted one full week. Now they’re doing the same thing again,” he said.

Joshi also defended the rollout of SIR, saying it was not the first time such an initiative was being implemented in the country, and that technology was being used responsibly to improve voter accuracy and transparency.

“SIR is not happening for the first time. The use of technology is a positive step. What are they so scared of?” Joshi questioned.

He pointed out that the system includes a three-level appeal process for any grievances, assuring that citizens have ample opportunity to raise concerns. “There is a clear scope for appeal at three levels. They can file it anytime. But instead of using the proper channels, they are blocking Parliament,” Joshi added.

The Minister urged all parties to allow the Monsoon Session to function smoothly, accusing the Opposition of derailing discussions on key national issues. “This is not democracy. Parliament must function. The people have elected us to debate, not to disrupt,” he said.