Parliament Session 2024: Akhilesh Yadav Questions EVMs, Modi to Address MPs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Lok Sabha today, responding to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address. This follows his first speech to NDA MPs after securing a third term. Modi’s address comes a day after Rahul Gandhi’s controversial debut speech as Leader of the Opposition, which touched on numerous issues including the NEET controversy and the Agnipath scheme. Portions of Gandhi’s speech were expunged, drawing criticism from opposition leaders.

SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, speaking in the Lok Sabha, expressed distrust in EVMs and criticized the Agniveer scheme, vowing it would be scrapped if the INDIA alliance comes to power. Yadav also called for a caste census and legal MSP guarantees for horticulture crops.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju relayed Modi’s advice to MPs on studying issues thoroughly before speaking to the media and prioritizing national service. Modi emphasized that all MPs, regardless of party, should serve the nation first and adhere to parliamentary conduct rules.

Rahul Gandhi faced backlash for his comments linking the BJP with violence, which he clarified was not an attack on Hinduism. The debate continues to highlight the ongoing political tensions in the Parliament.