Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi have jointly called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convene a special session of Parliament, stressing the need for a united national response following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
In separate letters to the Prime Minister, Kharge and Gandhi emphasized that at a critical time like this, it is essential for Parliament to demonstrate India’s collective resolve against terrorism.
Kharge wrote, “At this moment, when unity and solidarity are essential, the Opposition believes that a special session of both Houses should be convened at the earliest.” He added that such a session would send a strong signal of the nation’s determination to confront terrorism head-on.
Rahul Gandhi, in his letter, stated, “The terrorist attack in Pahalgam has outraged every Indian. At this critical time, India must show that we always stand together against terrorism.” He also requested that the special session be convened promptly to allow elected representatives to express national unity and determination.
The Congress party released the letters to the public on Tuesday morning.
The demand comes just days after an all-party meeting on April 24, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah briefed political leaders about the security situation post-attack. During the meeting, the government promised “strong action” against those responsible.
Kharge’s and Gandhi’s appeals also follow criticism of PM Modi’s absence from the all-party meeting, with Kharge accusing the Prime Minister of prioritizing political campaigning over national security.
The government has not yet responded to the Opposition’s demand for a special Parliament session.
