Congress MP Criticizes Centre Over Lack of Parliamentary Discussion on West Asia Crisis

Congress MP Manickam Tagore criticized the Indian government for not allowing a parliamentary discussion on the West Asia crisis, instead opting for a statement by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Tagore stressed the need for accountability, citing concerns over energy security and the safety of Indians in the Gulf.

In an assertive move, Congress MP Manickam Tagore took the Centre to task on Monday for its decision to schedule a ministerial statement rather than a full parliamentary debate on the escalating crisis in West Asia. Criticizing External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's upcoming statement as a 'pasted statement,' Tagore emphasized the urgent need for government accountability.

Tagore expressed serious concerns about India's energy security and the safety of its citizens residing in the Gulf region, as tensions mount following significant geopolitical developments. He highlighted that with oil and gas prices on the rise, coupled with the unease among thousands of Indians working in the area, this is no ordinary situation but a critical issue that demands comprehensive discourse in the Lok Sabha.

Rebuking the government's approach, Tagore stated that mere statements without accountability equate to 'notice-board diplomacy.' He stressed that leadership requires facing the nation in times of crisis and urged the government to engage in a full parliamentary debate, reminiscent of the 2003 Lok Sabha debate on the US invasion of Iraq. The ongoing Budget session focuses on vital legislative affairs, including the Union Budget 2026-27, but the situation in West Asia garners increasing international attention.