A HIGH-STAKES ADDRESS AMIDST TURBULENCE
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the Lok Sabha today, February 4, 2026, during the ongoing Budget Session. His speech will be on the "Motion of Thanks" to President Droupadi Murmu's address, a crucial parliamentary ritual that typically sets the tone for the government's agenda. However, this year's session has been anything but routine. It's been a whirlwind of disruptions, accusations, and significant international developments, raising probing questions about the state of parliamentary discourse and the government's handling of key issues.
The critical question is not just what the Prime Minister will say, but how the current tempestuous atmosphere in Parliament will shape his message, and what implications it holds for democratic debate.
The Parliament Budget Session, which began on January 28, 2026, with the President's address, was allocated a substantial 18 hours for debate on the motion of thanks. This period, designed for comprehensive discussion and critique of the government's performance and future plans, has been anything but smooth.
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Unpublished Memoirs and Accusations: The Lok Sabha has seen significant disruptions, notably on February 2 and 3, stemming from Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi's attempt to quote from an unpublished memoir by former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane. This move ignited a fierce backlash from Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah, who accused Gandhi of misleading the House and questioning the propriety of referencing non-public documents.
Suspensions and Standoffs: The resulting uproar led to the suspension of several opposition MPs, with reports indicating at least eight Congress MPs and one CPI(M) MP being suspended for "creating a ruckus" and "throwing bits of papers on the Chair" (The Hindu, Feb 3, 2026; Times of India, Feb 3, 2026). This drastic action has intensified the standoff between the ruling NDA and the opposition bloc.
Rahul Gandhi's Grievances: Gandhi himself has expressed that he is "not being allowed to speak" and has written to Speaker Om Birla about being "prevented from speaking on matters of national security" (The News Mill, Feb 4, 2026; NDTV, Feb 3, 2026).
This tumultuous backdrop makes the Prime Minister's address today far more than a formality. It is a moment where he must not only steer the parliamentary conversation but also potentially address the underlying issues that have led to such acrimony.
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THE GHOSTS OF UNPUBLISHED WORDS AND UNANSWERED QUESTIONS
The controversy surrounding Rahul Gandhi's reference to General Naravane's memoir has cast a long shadow over the Budget Session. This incident raises fundamental questions about the boundaries of parliamentary debate and the government's receptiveness to critical information.
What constitutes admissible evidence in Parliament? Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that "the book he is referring to has not been published" and therefore, cannot be quoted (India Today, Feb 2, 2026). But does the "unpublished" nature of a document automatically render it irrelevant or inadmissible in a parliamentary discussion, especially when it pertains to national security or historical events? Could this be a tactic to stifle legitimate critique?
The line between critique and misleading the House: While the government accused Gandhi of misleading the House, what is the threshold for such an accusation? Was it the source itself, or the interpretation and context provided by Gandhi? The defence from Amit Shah that BJP MP Tejasvi Surya "has not raised any questions on the Opposition's character or their patriotism" (India Today, Feb 2, 2026) seems to deflect from the core issue of whether any information, published or not, can be used to scrutinize the government.
The impact of suspensions: The suspension of opposition MPs for creating a "ruckus" is a severe measure. Does this approach effectively silence dissent, or does it further alienate a significant portion of the elected representatives? What are the long-term implications for parliamentary democracy when dialogue breaks down to this extent?
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The debate over General Naravane's memoir isn't just about a book; it's a proxy battle over access to information and the government's willingness to engage with uncomfortable narratives.
| Incident | Allegation/Action | Government Response | Opposition Reaction | Impact on Parliamentary Discourse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rahul Gandhi quotes from unpublished memoir | Gandhi attempts to cite Gen. M.M. Naravane's unpublished memoir regarding the 2020 India-China conflict. | Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah object, citing it as misleading and unparliamentary. | Gandhi claims he is being prevented from speaking on national security issues. | Lok Sabha adjourned multiple times; opposition MPs suspended. |
| Adjournment Motion on Epstein Files | Congress MP Manickam Tagore seeks discussion on alleged references to PM Modi in Jeffrey Epstein's emails. | No immediate official government statement documented in the provided articles. | The motion highlights sensitive international allegations against the PM. | Raises questions about transparency and accountability on international matters. |
THE INDIA-US TRADE DEAL: A SHADOW OVER THE PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS
Adding another layer of complexity to the parliamentary proceedings is the recent India-US trade deal. While the government is preparing to make a suo motu statement on this matter, the opposition has raised concerns about its implications.
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Concerns for Indian Industries and Farmers: Congress MP K.C. Venugopal gave an adjournment motion notice to discuss the India-US trade agreement, citing "adverse consequences" for Indian industries and farmers (ANI, Feb 2, 2026). This signals that the deal, which reportedly reduced tariffs on Indian exports to the US from 25% to 18% (Times of India, Feb 3, 2026), is not universally viewed as a positive development.
Government's Assurance vs. Opposition's Skepticism: Union Minister J.P. Nadda assured the Rajya Sabha that the government would issue a statement and was ready for a discussion (Times of India, Feb 3, 2026). However, the opposition's move to seek an adjournment motion suggests a deeper skepticism about the terms and impact of the deal.
Timing and Transparency: Why was the government not more proactive in sharing details of a significant trade deal with Parliament, especially when it has "significant economic, agricultural, and strategic implications"? (ANI, Feb 3, 2026). The delay and the need for an assurance from J.P. Nadda suggest a potential lack of transparency, which is amplified during a session meant for thorough deliberation.
The India-US trade deal, a supposed victory, has become another point of contention, with the opposition demanding clarity and the government opting for a measured, albeit delayed, disclosure.
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Prime Minister Modi himself tweeted his thanks to the US President for the trade deal (Times of India, Feb 3, 2026), and NDA MPs even felicitated him for it (ANI, Feb 3, 2026). This presents a stark contrast to the opposition's apprehension and the ongoing parliamentary debates.
| Issue | Key Actors | Details | Opposition Concern | Government Stance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India-US Trade Deal | K.C. Venugopal (Congress), J.P. Nadda (Union Minister) | Reduced tariffs on Indian exports from 25% to 18%. | Adverse consequences for Indian industries and farmers. | Government to issue a suo motu statement and hold discussions. |
| India-China Conflict Reference | Rahul Gandhi (Congress), Rajnath Singh (Defence Minister), Amit Shah (Home Minister) | Gandhi quotes from Gen. Naravane's unpublished memoir. | Accusations of misleading the House, stifling debate. | Upholding parliamentary decorum and propriety of sources. |
THE SPECTER OF JEFFREY EPSTEIN: A LOW BLOW OR A LEGITIMATE INQUIRY?
Perhaps the most jarring allegation to emerge during this session was Congress MP Manickam Tagore's move to seek an urgent discussion on reports linking Prime Minister Modi to Jeffrey Epstein (Moneycontrol, Feb 2, 2026; Hindustan Times, Feb 2, 2026). While no detailed government response or further discussion on this matter is extensively covered in the provided snippets, its introduction into parliamentary discourse is significant.
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The nature of the allegation: The reference to emails linked to a convicted sex offender is an extremely serious accusation, regardless of its veracity or the directness of the connection. It aims to tarnish the image of the Prime Minister on an international stage.
Parliamentary procedure for sensitive matters: How should Parliament handle such allegations? Is an adjournment motion the appropriate channel, or does it risk descending into sensationalism and political point-scoring?
Government's silence and its implications: The lack of detailed reporting on the government's response to this specific issue might indicate it was quickly dismissed or sidelined. However, the very fact that it was raised raises questions about the level of scrutiny the Prime Minister faces, both domestically and internationally, and how such matters should be addressed with transparency.
The Epstein file reference, though perhaps a fringe issue in the broader session, highlights the potent weapon of international scandal that opposition parties can wield, forcing the government to confront accusations that extend beyond domestic policy.
WHAT LIES AHEAD: A CRUCIAL MOMENT FOR PARLIAMENT
The Prime Minister's address today is not just about responding to the President's address; it's about navigating a Parliament deeply divided and grappling with significant controversies. His words will be scrutinized for signs of conciliation, assertiveness, or evasion.
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Will the PM address the suspensions directly? Will he acknowledge the concerns of the opposition regarding freedom of speech and the process of suspensions, or will he justify the actions taken to maintain order?
How will the government frame the India-US trade deal? Will the Prime Minister elaborate on the benefits and address the opposition's concerns about potential negative impacts, or will he present it as an unqualified success?
Will there be any mention of the more sensitive allegations? While unlikely to be a central theme, how the government addresses or ignores the Epstein reference will speak volumes about its approach to managing international reputational risks.
The Budget Session, scheduled to continue until April 2, 2026, has already witnessed unprecedented levels of acrimony and significant international policy discussions. The Prime Minister's speech today is a pivotal moment to either attempt to mend the fractured parliamentary discourse or to solidify his government's position amidst the ongoing storm. The nation waits, with bated breath, to see if today's address will be a call for unity or a continuation of the battle lines drawn.
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Sources:
NDTV: Parliament Budget Session 2026 Day 3 Live Updates: PM Modi To Address Lok Sabha At 5 Pm (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/parliament-budget-session-2026-live-lok-sabha-opens-today-with-debate-on-droupadi-murmus-address-18-hour-discussion-pm-modi-nirmala-sitharaman-10929064ANI News: Parliament Budget Session: PM Modi to address Lok Sabha on motion 'Thanks to the President's address' (February 4, 2026) -
https://aninews.in/news/national/general-news/parliament-budget-session-pm-modi-to-address-lok-sabha-on-motion-thanks-to-the-presidents-address20260204081334/Times of India: Parliament Budget Session 2026 Live Updates: 8 Congress MPs suspended from Lok Sabha over ruckus (February 3, 2026) -
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/parliament-budget-session-2026-live-updates-bjp-congress-parliament-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-president-droupadi-murmu/liveblog/127856145.cmsFinancial Express: Parliament Budget Session Highlights: Govt to make suo motu statement on India-US trade deal, says JP Nadda (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/parliament-budget-session-live-updates-pm-modi-reply-motion-of-thanks-rahul-gandhi-latest-news/4129208/Business Standard: PM Modi to speak in Lok Sabha today on Motion of Thanks to President (February 4, 2026) -
https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-speak-in-lok-sabha-today-on-motion-of-thanks-to-president-126020400137_1.htmlIndia TV News: Parliament Budget Session: Piyush Goyal to give statement on India-US trade deal in Rajya Sabha (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/parliament-budget-session-live-updates-discussion-on-the-motion-of-thanks-to-the-president-s-address-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-rahul-gandhi-2026-02-03-1028681The News Mill: PM Modi to address Lok Sabha on motion of thanks to President's address (February 4, 2026) -
https://thenewsmill.com/2026/02/pm-modi-to-address-lok-sabha-on-motion-of-thanks-to-presidents-address/News18: Parliament Budget Session 2026 Live Updates: LS Adjourned Till 11 A.M. Tomorrow; Several Oppn MPs Suspended (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.news18.com/politics/parliament-budget-session-2026-live-updates-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-pm-modi-nda-rahul-gandhi-rijiju-latest-news-3-feb-2-liveblog-ws-l-9875370.htmlLivemint: Uproar over Rahul's India-China remarks rocks Budget Session; Lok Sabha adjourned for the day, 8 Cong MPs suspended (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.livemint.com/news/parliament-budget-session-live-lok-sabha-adjourned-amid-howdi-modi-protests-by-opposition-over-india-us-trade-deal-11770096593839.htmlANI News: Parliament Budget Session: Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 pm amid protest by INDIA bloc MPs (February 3, 2026) -
https://aninews.in/news/national/politics/parliament-budget-session-lok-sabha-adjourned-till-2-pm-amid-protest-by-india-bloc-mps20260203123234/India TV News: Budget Session: Lok Sabha adjourned till tomorrow; Rahul says 'wasn't allowed to speak in House' | Highlights (February 2, 2026) -
https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/parliament-budget-session-2026-live-updates-budget-discussion-motion-of-thanks-on-president-address-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-pm-modi-rahul-gandhi-speech-1028545The Hindu: Parliament Budget Session Day 5 Highlights: Eight Opposition Lok Sabha MPs suspended for 'creating ruckus' (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-budget-session-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-the-hindu-live-updates-february-3-2026/article70586034.eceANI News: Budget Session: Lok Sabha adjourned till 12 noon amid sloganeering by Oppn MPs (February 3, 2026) -
https://aninews.in/news/national/politics/budget-session-lok-sabha-adjourned-till-12-noon-amid-sloganeering-by-oppn-mps20260203114538/NewKerala: Budget Session: Lok Sabha Debate on President's Address, PM Modi's Reply (February 4, 2026 - article dated 6 days prior to today) -
https://www.newkerala.com/news/a/budget-session-parliament-lok-sabha-debate-presidents-address-786.htmHindustan Times: Budget 2026 highlights: Lok Sabha adjourned after ex-army chief's book sparks Rahul vs govt row (February 2, 2026) -
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/unioun-budget-2026-live-parliament-session-budget-discussion-rajya-sabha-lok-sabha-rahul-gandhi-pm-modi-latest-news-101769996525828.htmlNewKerala: Parliament budget session live: Lok Sabha witnesses uproar over Rahul Gandhi's reference to Ex-Army chief Naravane's 'unpublished book' (February 2, 2026) -
https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/parliament-budget-session-pm-modi-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-news-rahul-gandhi-mamata-banerjee-trump-delhi-aqi-live-news-updates-february-2-liveblog-13804325.htmlRepublic World: Budget Session Full Schedule: 18 Hours For Debate On President's Address; PM Modi To Reply To Motion Of Thanks On Feb 4 (February 4, 2026 - article dated 6 days prior to today) -
https://www.republicworld.com/business/budget-session-full-schedule-18-hours-for-debate-on-president-s-address-pm-modi-to-reply-to-motion-of-thanks-on-feb-4Hindustan Times: Parliament Session 2026 highlights: LS marred by adjournments; ruckus after Rahul seeks to cite Naravane's memoir (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/parliament-live-updates-lok-sabha-rahul-gandhi-pm-modi-naravane-memoir-india-china-congress-bjp-budget-session-101770085488206.htmlETV Bharat: Parliament Budget Session 2026 Live: LS Adjourned Amid Ruckus Over Rahul's Attempts To Quote From Gen Naravane 'Memoir' (February 2, 2026) -
https://www.etvbharat.com/en/bharat/live-blog--parliament-budget-session-2026-live-updates-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-motion-of-thanks-president-droupadi-murmu-rahul-gandhi-narendra-modi-enn26020201145The Hindu: Parliament Budget Session 2026 Live Updates: Lok Sabha adjourned till 11 AM tomorrow; Several Oppn MPs Suspended (February 3, 2026) -
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-budget-session-2026-live-updates-lok-sabha-adjourned-till-11-am-tomorrow-several-oppn-mps-suspended/article70586831.ece
