December 20, 2024: On the final day of the Parliament’s winter session, political tensions reached a peak as both the BJP-led NDA and the Congress-led INDIA bloc staged simultaneous protests outside the Parliament building in New Delhi. These protests set the stage for what is expected to be a charged conclusion to a session marked by heated debates, major legislative efforts, and frequent disruptions.

The protests come after a dramatic confrontation between the two political camps inside the Parliament on Thursday, underscoring the growing rift between the ruling party and the opposition. With Parliament poised for stormy proceedings on the last day of the session, both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha are expected to witness intense debates and discussions, fueled by the controversies that have dominated the winter session.

The winter session, which began on November 25, has been tumultuous, with the first week of proceedings marred by disruptions and frequent adjournments. Opposition parties, led by the INDIA bloc, have been particularly vocal in their demand for a discussion on the US indictment of business tycoon Gautam Adani, a topic that has sparked fierce political debate. The government’s refusal to allow such a discussion in the House led to widespread protests and resulted in significant disruptions that nearly led to a washout of the session.

Key issues throughout the session have included debates on constitutional values, federalism, and the health of Indian democracy. Tensions were further heightened by controversial remarks made by Home Minister Amit Shah regarding Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and the no-confidence motion moved against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. In addition, the political spotlight also shone on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's debut in the Lok Sabha, as her presence was met with both applause and criticism.