In a poignant valedictory address on August 21, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed profound anguish over the persistent disruptions that marred the fifth session of the 18th Lok Sabha, which concluded after commencing on July 21, 2025.
The session, intended to span 120 hours of productive discussion, was curtailed to just 37 hours due to planned disruptions, including sloganeering and placard displays, which Birla described as an affront to parliamentary decorum.
Birla emphasised that the public expects elected representatives to engage in serious and meaningful discussions on critical issues and legislation. Despite opportunities provided to members across the political spectrum to voice their views, continuous deadlocks undermined these efforts. Notably, only 55 of the 419 listed starred questions were answered orally, reflecting the significant loss of productive time.
The session saw the introduction of 14 government bills, with 12 successfully passed. Special discussions highlighted key national achievements, including ‘Operation Sindoor’ on July 28-29, concluded with a reply from the Prime Minister, and a session on India’s space programme on August 18. However, Birla lamented the undignified language and behaviour witnessed during the Monsoon Session, urging members to uphold restraint and set an example for the nation and the world.
In his address, Birla underscored the importance of maintaining parliamentary dignity, both within the House and on its premises, to meet public expectations and strengthen democratic processes. The session’s adjournment sine die marked a call to action for future sittings to prioritise constructive dialogue over disruption.
