Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan as he presided over the Rajya Sabha for the first time on the opening day of the Parliament’s Winter Session. Radhakrishnan, who took office in September, succeeded Jagdeep Dhankhar as India’s Vice President.
Addressing the House, PM Modi said it was a "proud moment" for all members to have Radhakrishnan take the Chair. “On behalf of the House, I heartily congratulate you and wish you all the best. I assure you that all members will maintain the dignity of the Upper House and uphold your dignity as Chairman,” he said.
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The Prime Minister highlighted Radhakrishnan’s background and years of work in public life. “Our Chairman comes from a simple, farmer’s family and has dedicated his life to social service. Politics was one aspect, but his core has always been service to society. He is an inspiration for all of us,” Modi said.
The PM also recalled Radhakrishnan’s tenure in Jharkhand. “I saw the bond you forged with tribal communities. Whether you had a helicopter or not, you travelled to the smallest villages. You never let protocol interfere with your work,” he added.
As per a report by Times of India, earlier in the day, speaking to the media before the session began, Modi urged the Opposition to move forward after their defeat in the Bihar elections. “Whoever wants to do drama can do it. There should be delivery here, not drama. The emphasis should be on policy, not slogans,” he said.
Kharge welcomes VP, quotes Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge also congratulated the Vice-President on behalf of the Opposition. “I rise today on my own behalf and on behalf of all opposition members to heartily congratulate you on assuming office,” he said.
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Kharge then cited former President Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan to underline the role of Opposition in a democracy. Quoting his 1952 speech, he said: “A democracy is likely to degenerate into tyranny if it does not allow opposition groups to criticise fairly, freely and frankly the policies of the government.”
He further noted Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s statement, “I belong to no party,” adding that it was relevant since “many people claimed that you belong to their party.”
