New Delhi: Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Shri Mallikarjun Kharge on March 18, 2026, called for longer parliamentary sessions, greater cooperation between treasury and Opposition benches, and a review of procedural rules while addressing the House during a farewell to retiring members. Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge said that Parliament functions best when both sides collaborate constructively, cautioning that lack of cooperation and rising mistrust could weaken democratic institutions.

He also urged the government to extend the duration of parliamentary sessions to enable more substantive debates on important legislation and public issues. Emphasising the crucial role of the Opposition, Shri Kharge stressed that quality lawmaking requires equal participation from Opposition members, particularly in parliamentary committees, warning that sidelining dissent could harm institutional credibility.

Expressing concern over the expunction of remarks, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha flagged the frequent removal of important portions of Opposition members’ statements from official records, saying it distorts the meaning of debates and undermines accountability.

Calling for procedural reforms, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge advocated a review of Rajya Sabha rules and procedures, currently under consideration by the General Purposes Committee, to ensure smoother functioning and protect democratic discourse.

He said that discussions should prioritise the concerns of farmers, labourers, and weaker sections, adding that criticism from the Opposition benches should not be misconstrued as hostility. Describing the Rajya Sabha as a “Continuous House”, Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge noted that while some retiring members may return, others may not get another opportunity, making the farewell significant.

He said that public representatives “never retire” from public life, emphasising continued service to the nation beyond parliamentary tenure. He shared his own experience of over five decades in public life, including his current tenure as Leader of the Opposition since 2021, highlighting the importance of continuous learning in Parliament.

Acknowledging the contributions of retiring members, the Leader of the Opposition referred to senior leaders such as former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, while noting that NCP(SP) Chief Sharad Pawar would be returning to the House, and expressed hope that experienced members would continue to guide its proceedings.

He also lauded the parliamentary contributions of leaders such as Shri Digvijaya Singh, Shri Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Shri KTS Tulsi for enriching debates. Referring to retiring Deputy Chairman Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh, he praised his courteous conduct in presiding over proceedings.

Emphasising consensus-building, he said that cooperation, not “hatred or suspicion”, should guide parliamentary functioning. He warned that growing distance between political sides could lead to misunderstandings and weaken democratic engagement.

Concluding on a poetic note, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge wished the retiring members success in their future roles, expressing confidence that they would continue contributing to public life. He reiterated the need for unity and collective effort in serving national interests.