New Delhi, February 1. Today marked the first day of the budget session for the 18th Lok Sabha. President Droupadi Murmu addressed a joint session of both houses of Parliament—the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha—delivering a 59-minute speech.
Her address sparked controversy due to comments from Congress leaders. Sonia Gandhi used the word “poor thing” to describe Droupadi Murmu, while Rahul Gandhi called the speech “boring.”
The BJP labeled it an insult to tribal communities and demanded an apology. Prime Minister Modi also stated that such remarks about the President disrespect the poor and tribal populations.
Meanwhile, the Press Secretary of Rashtrapati Bhavan objected to Sonia Gandhi’s statement, calling it “unfortunate and damaging to the dignity of the President.”
Read Sonia and Rahul’s comments…
Sonia Gandhi: “By the end, the President was very tired. Poor thing, she could barely speak.”
Rahul Gandhi: “It was boring—the same points were repeated again and again.”
Pappu Yadav: “The President is like a rubber stamp. She just keeps reading love letters.”
Priyanka defended her mother Sonia, saying her words were twisted
Responding to criticism of Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka said, “My mother is a 78-year-old elderly woman. She only meant that the President must have been tired after delivering such a long speech—poor thing. She deeply respects India’s President. It’s unfortunate that the media is distorting her words. Both of them are elder and respected figures. There was no ill intent in her remark.”
Modi stated several historic bills will be introduced this session
Before the President’s address in Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the media outside the House. The PM said, “Several historic bills will be introduced this session. Important decisions will be made to ensure every woman leads a dignified life. We will reform, perform, and transform.”
New Delhi
New Delhi, the capital of India, was officially established in 1911 during British colonial rule and designed by architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. It replaced Kolkata (Calcutta) as the capital and features grand colonial-era landmarks like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan (the Presidential Residence). Today, it serves as India’s political and cultural hub, blending historic monuments with modern urban life.
18th Lok Sabha
The **18th Lok Sabha** is the lower house of India’s Parliament, formed after the 2024 general elections. It continues the democratic tradition established in 1952, with members elected to represent constituencies across India. The Lok Sabha plays a key role in lawmaking, governance, and oversight of the executive branch, reflecting India’s vibrant parliamentary democracy.
Lok Sabha
The **Lok Sabha** is the lower house of India’s bicameral Parliament and the primary legislative body of the country. Established in 1952 after India’s independence, it consists of elected representatives who draft and pass laws, oversee the executive branch, and represent the people. The Lok Sabha plays a key role in India’s democratic system, with members serving five-year terms unless dissolved earlier.
Rajya Sabha
The **Rajya Sabha**, or Council of States, is the upper house of India’s Parliament, established in 1952 under the Constitution. It represents India’s states and union territories, with members elected by state legislatures or nominated by the President for their expertise in arts, sciences, or social services. Alongside the Lok Sabha, it plays a key role in legislation, ensuring federal balance and deliberative scrutiny of laws.
Rashtrapati Bhavan
Rashtrapati Bhavan, located in New Delhi, India, is the official residence of the President of India. Designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens, it was completed in 1929 as the Viceroy’s House during British rule and became the presidential palace after India’s independence in 1947. The grand building blends Indian and Western architectural styles and is set within the vast Mughal Gardens, symbolizing India’s democratic heritage.
Parliament
The **Parliament** refers to the supreme legislative body in many countries, often consisting of elected representatives who debate and pass laws. One of the most famous is the **UK Parliament**, established in the 13th century, which includes the House of Commons and House of Lords and meets at the **Palace of Westminster** in London. Other nations, such as Canada, Australia, and India, also have parliamentary systems modeled after the British tradition.
