Democracy Needs Harmony, Not Constant Tension: Dhankhar

New Delhi

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday stressed that a thriving democracy cannot survive amid constant political hostility. As the Monsoon Session of Parliament began, he urged all parties to avoid personal attacks and focus on constructive discussions. Dhankhar highlighted that progress comes from dialogue, not conflict, and called for mutual respect among leaders.

His remarks come at a time when the Opposition is pressing the government for answers on the Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor, and former US President Donald Trump's claim of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

Political tension must be reduced. Parties may differ in approach, but no one opposes national interest, Dhankhar said, warning that internal strife only helps enemies. He added that India’s strength lies in dialogue and deliberation, and that must guide parliamentary functioning.

He also informed that several key bills will be discussed in the session, and four days are allotted for Private Members’ Business to raise individual concerns.

The House paid tribute to those who died in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and the June 12 Air India crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 260 lives. Dhankhar praised the bravery of security forces and the public's unity in supporting Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam attack.

Obituary references were also made to seven former Rajya Sabha members who recently passed away. However, the session saw brief disruptions as Opposition members demanded urgent discussions on key issues and clarifications from the government.