Centre blames Opposition for stalling Parliament debate on pollution

The Union Government on Friday (December 19, 2025) accused the Opposition of obstructing a debate in Parliament on the issue of air pollution in the National Capital Region, and displaying “unacceptable behaviour” during the debate on Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill.

Addressing a press conference after the conclusion of the Winter Session, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju termed it “very productive” as eight Bills were passed following debates in both the Houses. He said the laws would accelerate the reforms being brought by the Narendra Modi Government to uplift the lives of common people.

“The Reform Express of the Modi Government will not stop. It will speed up now. The Bills will contribute in a big way to our reform initiatives. Crores of people will be benefited, their lives will be changed, and it will help bring all-round development in the country,” he said.

However, he criticised the conduct of Opposition parliamentarians during the debate on the Bill in the Lok Sabha. The Union Minister said while some Opposition leaders climbed onto desks, some Congress members also conveyed that there was no requirement for a debate on pollution, because of which the issue could not be discussed.

Stating that the government was ready for a discussion on pollution, he said the Minister concerned prepared for the debate after the issue was listed in the names of three members — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Kanimozhi, and Bansuri Swaraj.

“But Congress encouraged others to stage protests (on the Bill) in the Well of the House. They threw papers and stood atop desks and stalled the proceedings. I want to tell the Opposition that they won’t get votes through such tactics. Only good work will get them votes,” he said.

(With PTI inputs)