Amid Opposition Protests, Kiren Rijiju Says Govt ‘Ready To Discuss SIR, But Don’t Insist…’

Introduction

A tense atmosphere continued in Parliament today as the Opposition staged strong protests demanding an immediate discussion on the Social Impact Review (SIR) controversy. The repeated sloganeering led to multiple disruptions in both Houses, prompting Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to appeal for cooperation and assure that the government is “fully prepared to discuss the matter.”

Government says it is open to debate

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Kiren Rijiju said the government is not running away from any discussion. He added that the Opposition was free to raise questions, seek clarification, and even criticise the government—provided that the debate happens in an orderly manner.

Rijiju said the issue could be taken up as long as the Opposition does not “insist on setting terms” or disrupt the ongoing legislative business.

Opposition demands immediate discussion

The Opposition, however, remained firm on its demand that the SIR issue be addressed first.
Leaders argued that the matter concerns public trust and deserves priority in the session. They accused the government of delaying tactics and claimed that the refusal to discuss SIR immediately raises “serious concerns.”

Many MPs stormed into the Well of the House, shouting slogans and holding placards, which forced repeated adjournments.

What is the SIR issue?

The Opposition alleges lack of transparency and accountability in the Social Impact Review process for several major projects.
They say that the government bypassed due procedures, affecting communities, environmental safeguards, and public expenditure.

The government has rejected these allegations, saying all processes were followed and the Opposition is spreading misinformation for political gain.

Rijiju urges MPs to maintain dignity of the House

Kiren Rijiju reminded MPs that the Winter Session is crucial, with several key Bills lined up.
He said that constant disruption weakens Parliament’s functioning and affects the public interest.

Rijiju also emphasized that the government has always respected debate and welcomed dialogue, but protest cannot replace parliamentary procedure.

Session continues amid tensions

Despite his appeal, protests continued through the afternoon, with Opposition members refusing to back down.
The Speaker tried to restore order but eventually adjourned the House again.

With both sides stuck in their positions, the standoff is likely to continue unless a consensus is reached on the order of business.

Conclusion

The government’s assurance that it is ready for discussion has not eased the Opposition’s demand for immediate debate on the SIR issue.
As the Winter Session moves forward, all eyes are on whether both sides can find common ground or whether disruptions will dominate the coming days.