6 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Polity & GovernanceSocial IssuesNEWS

PM Modi Accuses Opposition of Defiling Temple of Democracy

PM Modi accuses opposition of disrespecting democracy, Constitution, and tribal identity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, February 5, 2026, that the opposition's repeated defeats were difficult for them to accept. He criticized the opposition for not allowing him to reply to the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President in the Lok Sabha, calling it a "defilement of the temple of democracy" and an insult to President Droupadi Murmu, her position, her tribal identity, and the Constitution. The opposition staged a walkout during Mr.

Modi's speech. He also condemned Rahul Gandhi's "traitor" comment on Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu. The Congress, in turn, accused the Prime Minister of hiding behind Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

Key Facts

Prime Minister Modi accused the opposition of defiling the temple of democracy.

The accusation was made in the Rajya Sabha.

The opposition staged a walkout during Mr. Modi's speech.

The Prime Minister referred to the absence of a reply by him in the Lok Sabha on the same debate.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 2: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

Connects to the syllabus by highlighting the importance of parliamentary decorum and the role of the opposition.

Potential question types include statement-based questions on parliamentary procedures and the role of the Speaker.

Visual Insights

Parliamentary Disruptions in India: A Recent History

Timeline of key events related to parliamentary proceedings and disruptions, leading up to the current news.

Parliamentary disruptions have been a recurring feature of Indian politics, often stemming from disagreements over policy, allegations of corruption, or demands for accountability. These disruptions can impact the functioning of Parliament and the passage of legislation.

2016Frequent disruptions during the Budget Session over various issues.
2019Disruptions over the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) in both houses of Parliament.
2020Opposition protests against farm laws lead to repeated adjournments.
2021Uproar and disruptions during the Monsoon Session over the Pegasus snooping controversy.
2022Winter session witnesses disruptions over price rise and unemployment.
2023Adjournments due to opposition demands for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the Adani issue.
2024Parliamentary sessions disrupted over Manipur violence and government's response.
2025Debates on electoral reforms and the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code face disruptions.
2026PM Modi accuses opposition of defiling the 'Temple of Democracy' after walkout during his speech on Motion of Thanks.

More Information

Background

The concept of the 'temple of democracy' often refers to the Parliament, drawing parallels to the sanctity and importance of legislative bodies. The origins of parliamentary democracy in India can be traced back to the colonial era, with the gradual introduction of representative institutions. The Government of India Act 1919 and the Government of India Act 1935 were crucial steps in this evolution, though with limited franchise and powers. Post-independence, the Indian Constitution established a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic. The Constitution enshrines the principles of parliamentary supremacy while also incorporating elements of judicial review. Key milestones include the adoption of the Constitution in 1950, the first general elections in 1951-52, and subsequent amendments that have shaped the relationship between the legislature, executive, and judiciary. The Kesavananda Bharati case is a landmark example of judicial review. The legal and constitutional framework for the Indian Parliament is primarily defined by Part V of the Constitution, specifically Articles 79 to 122. These articles deal with the composition of Parliament, the powers and functions of the President, the legislative procedure, and the privileges of Parliament. The Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha further regulate the functioning of the two Houses.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increasing scrutiny of parliamentary proceedings and the conduct of members. Debates around disruptions, walkouts, and the overall effectiveness of parliamentary debates have intensified. The use of instruments like ordinances and the passage of laws with limited debate have also drawn criticism. The role of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha in maintaining order and impartiality has come under the spotlight. Different stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, have expressed varying perspectives on the functioning of Parliament. Concerns have been raised about the decline in the number of sittings, the quality of debates, and the increasing polarization of political discourse. The effectiveness of parliamentary committees in scrutinizing legislation and holding the government accountable has also been questioned. The Parliamentary Standing Committees play a crucial role in pre-legislative scrutiny. Looking ahead, there is a need for reforms to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Parliament. This includes measures to promote greater participation by members, improve the quality of debates, and strengthen the role of parliamentary committees. The adoption of technology and innovative practices can also help to modernize parliamentary procedures and make them more transparent and accessible. The government aims to increase the use of e-parliament initiatives to improve efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is meant by 'temple of democracy' in the context of PM Modi's statement?

The 'temple of democracy' generally refers to the Parliament, highlighting its sanctity and importance as a legislative body. PM Modi used this phrase to criticize the opposition's behavior during parliamentary proceedings.

2. Why is the Prime Minister's accusation of 'defiling the temple of democracy' considered important for UPSC?

This statement is important as it raises questions about parliamentary decorum, the role of the opposition, and the overall functioning of Indian democracy. Understanding the context of such statements helps in analyzing the dynamics of Indian polity for the UPSC exam.

3. What are the key facts related to PM Modi's statement in the Rajya Sabha?

Key facts include: PM Modi accused the opposition of defiling the temple of democracy. The accusation was made in the Rajya Sabha. The opposition staged a walkout during Mr. Modi's speech. The Prime Minister referred to the absence of a reply by him in the Lok Sabha on the same debate.

4. How might the frequent disruptions and walkouts in Parliament affect the democratic process?

Frequent disruptions and walkouts can hinder constructive debate, delay important legislation, and erode public trust in the Parliament. It can also lead to a situation where the government can pass laws with limited scrutiny.

5. What is the historical background of parliamentary democracy in India?

The origins of parliamentary democracy in India can be traced back to the colonial era, with the gradual introduction of representative institutions. The Government of India Act 1919 and the Government of India Act 1935 were crucial steps in this evolution.

6. What are the recent developments related to parliamentary proceedings that have drawn criticism?

Recent developments include debates around disruptions, walkouts, and the overall effectiveness of parliamentary debates. The use of instruments like ordinances and the passage of laws with limited debate have also drawn criticism.

7. How does the Prime Minister's statement potentially impact the image of the Indian Parliament?

The Prime Minister's statement, accusing the opposition of defiling the temple of democracy, can negatively impact the image of the Indian Parliament by highlighting the disruptions and lack of consensus. This can erode public trust in the institution.

8. What is the role of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha in maintaining order during parliamentary debates?

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is responsible for maintaining order and decorum in the House. The Speaker has the power to control the proceedings, recognize members to speak, and take action against those who disrupt the House.

9. Why is this news about the PM's statement categorized under 'Polity & Governance' for UPSC preparation?

This news falls under 'Polity & Governance' because it directly relates to the functioning of Parliament, the conduct of elected representatives, and the overall health of Indian democracy. These are key areas of focus in the UPSC syllabus.

10. What recent events led to the current accusations and counter-accusations between the ruling party and the opposition?

As per the topic, the opposition's repeated defeats and their actions during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President in the Lok Sabha led to the Prime Minister's accusations. Rahul Gandhi's comment on a Union Minister also contributed to the tensions.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the 'Motion of Thanks' in the Indian Parliament: 1. It is a motion moved in the Lok Sabha to thank the President for his address to both Houses of Parliament at the commencement of the first session after each general election and at the commencement of the first session of each year. 2. Amendments to the 'Motion of Thanks' can be moved. 3. The 'Motion of Thanks' is voted on in the House, and if it fails to pass, it amounts to the defeat of the government. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. The Motion of Thanks is indeed a motion moved in the Lok Sabha to thank the President for his address. Amendments can be moved, and the failure of the motion to pass is considered a defeat of the government. The President's address outlines the government's policies and achievements, making the Motion of Thanks a crucial parliamentary procedure. The motion is governed by Article 87 of the Constitution.

2. Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha? 1. The Speaker is elected by the members of Lok Sabha from amongst its members. 2. The Speaker presides over the joint sitting of both the Houses of Parliament. 3. The Speaker can vote in the first instance on any matter before the House. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 only
C.1 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Speaker is elected from amongst the members of the Lok Sabha and presides over joint sittings. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Speaker does not vote in the first instance but can exercise a casting vote in case of a tie. The Speaker's role is crucial for maintaining order and decorum in the House. The powers and functions of the Speaker are derived from the Constitution of India and the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha.

3. In the context of parliamentary procedures, what does a 'walkout' typically signify?

A.A formal debate on a specific issue
B.A method of recording attendance of members
C.A form of protest or disagreement with the proceedings
D.A procedure for amending a bill

Show Answer

Answer: C

A 'walkout' is a form of protest or disagreement with the proceedings of the House. It is a way for members to express their dissatisfaction or opposition to a particular issue or decision. It is not a formal debate, a method of recording attendance, or a procedure for amending a bill. The news article mentions that the opposition staged a walkout during Mr. Modi's speech, indicating their protest.

4. Which of the following is NOT a constitutionally mandated function of the President of India with respect to the Parliament?

A.Summoning the Parliament
B.Addressing the Parliament at the commencement of the first session after each general election
C.Vetoing legislation passed by the Parliament
D.Directly participating in debates within the Parliament

Show Answer

Answer: D

While the President has several constitutionally mandated functions with respect to the Parliament, including summoning it, addressing it at the commencement of the first session, and vetoing legislation, directly participating in debates within the Parliament is not one of them. The President's role is more ceremonial and advisory in this regard. The President's powers are defined in Part V of the Constitution.