Energy Security at Risk: Parliament Budget Session Pivots to West Asia Conflict

The Parliament Budget Session's second phase began with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge demanding a discussion on India's energy security impacted by the West Asia conflict. Concerns were raised over rising cooking gas prices and the safety of Indians in the Gulf. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to address the situation.

The Parliament's Budget Session resumed, focusing on India's energy security in light of the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Congress President and Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition, Mallikarjun Kharge, has urged for a short-duration discussion in the Rajya Sabha concerning the implications of the conflict on India.

Kharge emphasized the economic repercussions, citing a Rs 7 hike in cooking gas prices and the threat to India's image and economic stability. He expressed alarm over the well-being of approximately 1 crore Indians residing in the Gulf region, where the conflict's fallout poses security risks.

The session, coinciding with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's planned remarks on the 'Situation in West Asia,' will extend till April 2. It also marks significant legislative discussions, including the Union Budget for 2026-27, amidst global scrutiny over the West Asia tension, following lethal strikes involving Iran, the US, and Israel.

(With inputs from agencies.)