Tarh Johny Slams Rijiju Over Remarks on Rahul Gandhi

Itanagar, July 30, 2026: Indian Youth Congress National General Secretary Tarh Johny on Thursday criticised Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju over his remarks against Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi during the ongoing Parliament session, saying the Minister should uphold parliamentary democracy instead of acting as a political defender of the BJP.

In a press statement, Johny said the Parliamentary Affairs Minister's primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament, facilitate democratic debate, and provide equal space for both the Treasury and Opposition benches. He alleged that Rijiju appeared more focused on defending the ruling government than addressing concerns raised by the Opposition, particularly on student-related issues, examination matters and protests.

Johny argued that allegations raised by the Opposition should be answered with facts rather than personal attacks. He said questioning the government is a fundamental role of the Leader of the Opposition and should not be portrayed as an insult to Parliament. He also maintained that Parliament belongs to the people of India, not to any political party, and that all elected representatives have the right to raise public concerns.

Addressing Rijiju as the representative of Arunachal West, Johny said the people of Arunachal Pradesh elected him to represent their interests, strengthen democratic institutions and amplify the voice of the Northeast, not to shield the government from criticism. He concluded by stating that Parliament needs answers instead of political confrontation, students deserve justice, and democracy requires accountability rather than intimidation.