13 December, 2024; In a recent statement, DMK Member of Parliament (MP) T. Siva voiced deep concerns about the state of democracy in India, particularly regarding the functioning of the Indian Parliament. Speaking to the media, he lamented the growing challenges faced by the opposition in the country’s legislative body, accusing the ruling party of undermining democratic values.
“We are all saddened by the state of democracy in our country. At least we have got a chance to speak before you,” said Siva, expressing his dismay over the situation. He highlighted the issue of selective telecasting of debates in the Upper House, particularly during a recent session. “Whatever happened in the Upper House today was not telecast properly. Whatever the members of the ruling party spoke was telecast, while on all other occasions, even when the Leader of the Opposition was speaking, he was not shown. Only the chair was shown,” he noted, emphasizing the lack of transparency and fairness in media coverage of parliamentary proceedings.
Siva further pointed out the disrespect shown to the Leader of the Opposition, accusing the ruling party of disregarding the Leader’s authority and stature. “The Leader of the Opposition, who is equal to the Leader of the House, is not given the slightest respect according to his age. He is suffering, he is crying, he is shouting, but he is not being heard at all,” Siva said, highlighting the emotional and professional challenges faced by opposition leaders in the current political climate.
The MP also expressed concern about the suppression of opposition voices in Parliament. “The Leader of the Opposition is being insulted, the Opposition parties are not being given a chance to speak, and the ruling party is free to say whatever it wants,” he added, condemning the apparent imbalance in the functioning of the legislative process.
T. Siva’s comments shed light on a growing frustration among opposition parties, who feel increasingly marginalized in the face of the dominant narrative controlled by the ruling government. His statement calls for greater respect for democratic processes, urging a more inclusive and balanced approach to governance and parliamentary discourse.
As India navigates the complexities of its democracy, the issues raised by Siva reflect the challenges faced by opposition parties in ensuring their voices are heard and that the fundamental principles of democratic fairness are upheld.
