Opposition Uproar During President’s Address as G RAM G Act Is Mentioned

New Delhi: The Budget Session of Parliament began on Wednesday with President Droupadi Murmu’s customary address to the joint sitting of both Houses. However, the proceedings were briefly disrupted when opposition members raised slogans and created an uproar following the President’s reference to the “Developed India – G RAM G Act.”

In her address, President Murmu highlighted India’s progress across sectors ranging from defence to trade. She noted that with the year 2026, India has entered the second phase of the 21st century, describing the first 25 years as a period marked by achievements, national pride, and transformative experiences. She emphasized that the past decade has strengthened the country’s foundations across all sectors and that the current year would serve as a crucial base for the vision of a “Developed India.”

The disruption occurred when the President mentioned the Developed India–G RAM G Act, describing it as a law aimed at strengthening rural development and accelerating inclusive growth. As soon as the Act was mentioned, opposition MPs began shouting slogans, demanding the withdrawal of the legislation. Slogans such as “Take it back, take it back” echoed in the House, forcing a brief interruption in the address.

While opposition members protested vocally, NDA MPs expressed their support by thumping desks, backing both the President’s address and the G RAM G Act. After several minutes of sloganeering, the opposition members resumed their seats, allowing the President to continue her speech.

The controversy surrounding the G RAM G Act dates back to the previous parliamentary session, when the Modi government introduced the law as a replacement for MGNREGA. Opposition parties have objected to the legislation on two main grounds: the absence of Mahatma Gandhi’s name in the title and the provision that shifts a portion of the financial burden to state governments.

Despite the brief disruption, the President’s address proceeded, marking the formal commencement of the Budget Session amid sharp political differences over the new legislation.