18th Lok Sabha Session:

Ahead of the inauguration of the 18th Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delivered a powerful message mentioning the need for a responsible and meaningful opposition. He stressed on during his speech, that the need for debate, hard work and consensus is necessary to take India on the path of becoming a developed country.

A Landmark in India's Democratic Journey:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while welcoming newly parliamentarians attending their first session in Parliament today, said that this commencement of 18th Lok Sabha event as one which stands out as significant in India’s democratic process from an earlier session perspective.

He said that this session is critical since it will be used as a moment for pushing forward the Viksit Bharat mission [Developed India] so far perceived in our imaginations alone.

In his speech PM also noted “India witnessed the world’s largest elections, completed with great fanfare, marking a moment of pride. This election was especially noteworthy as, for the second time since independence, a government has been re-elected for a third consecutive term.”

Call for a Responsible Opposition:

In a direct message to the Congress-led Opposition, PM Modi stressed that Indians don’t only need slogans from their representatives but more. “There must be a responsible Opposition in India. There should be some essence, not just slogans; there has to be discussion and hard work rather than disrupting the Parliament,” he argued. He hoped that the opposition will behave properly and be guided by democratic principles when given this chance.

Reflecting on the Emergency:

PM Modi recalls the 50-year anniversary of the 25th June 1975 emergency declaration by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who described it as a “black spot” on India’s democracy.

“For those dedicated to the dignity of the Indian Constitution and democratic traditions, June 25 is a day that can never be forgotten,” he told them. Modi then recalled how the Constitution was thrown out of the window and our country turned into a jail, while also pointing out the importance of safeguarding democratic values and ensuring such an event never recurs

Commitment to Consensus and Democracy:

The need for a consensus in decision-making was stressed by PM Modi ahead of the first session for the good of the country. Even though National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won a third straight term, BJP itself missed majority for the first time in a decade.

“Majority is required to run the government but to run the country consensus is most important,” Modi said. He promised to work non-stop for the nation in order to fulfill the aspirations of 1.4 billion people living here by involving everyone and keeping the sanctity of Constitution.

The Role of Young Parliamentarians:

The prime minister also recognized the strong presence of young parliamentarians in the 18 Lok Sabha who shape the future of their country. He was confident about their ability to contribute positively towards this end being sure that such people would work hard enough to meet the public’s expectation.

First Session of the 18th Lok Sabha:

As such, it is expected that during the first session that will go on up to July 3rd, the18th Lok Sabha will give a glimpse on what to expect from prime minister Modi in his third term.

It is in the course of this same session that the formal appointment of Rahul Gandhi as the leader of opposition would take place as this slot remained vacant since 2014.

At the start of business in the house, PM Modi took oath to become a member of the 18th Lok Sabha thus marking a new chapter for Indian politics.

Upholding Democracy’s Dignity:

While addressing Opposition members PM Modi urged them to maintain dignity of democracy by avoiding disruptions during parliamentary sessions. Stressing that “People don’t want drama or disruption, they want substance,” he further explained. Modi also indicated that we need good opposition which is responsible expressing his faith in the new MPs to come would endeavor to meet those expectations of an ordinary person.

Reflecting upon Past Successes and Future Aspirations:

The prime minister PM Modi reviewed his administration’s achievements in the past decade with an emphasis on a need for agreement to develop and fully integrate nationally-oriented programs.

“We have always tried to carry on with a tradition for the last ten years because we feel that the majority is needed in order to govern but for leading this country, consensus matters most,” he said.

He pledged to remain committed to realizing the dreams of the Indian people by ensuring that decisions taken are ones which reflect the collective view point of all persons concerned as well as those in authority.

A Vision for the Future:

As the session progresses, the government is expected to outline its vision and plans for the future. PM Modi’s call for a responsible opposition, his emphasis on consensus and review of the yesteryears serve as a roadmap for the period ahead’. The PM stressed the fact that this government dedicated to work three times harder in this third term and fulfilling three times more promises for significant progress and growth for India.

Conclusion:

The founding meeting of the 18th Lok Sabha represents a milestone in India’s journey towards democracy. PM Modi addresses the importance of responsible governance, consensus-building, and adherence to democratic principles. As the nation looks forward to the new session, Modi addresses the importance of substantive debate, diligence, and collective decision-making which sets forth the stage for a great and effective parliamentary term.

Sharing my remarks at the start of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha. May it be a productive one.https://t.co/Ufz6XDa3hZ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 24, 2024