BJP is forcibly passing bills in Parliament: Derek O'Brien alleges

Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government on the weekend. He accused the government of bringing in "draconian" laws and bulldozing bills through Parliament without proper discussion. At the same time, he questioned the frequent disruptions in the functioning of both Houses.

Mr. O'Brien alleged on social media platform 'X' that the ruling party has made it a practice to bring in controversial laws in Parliament and pass them without any meaningful discussion. The Trinamool Congress leader said, "The BJP's method: bring in draconian bills like the FCRA and then bulldoze them through Parliament without a discussion."

The senior MP also argued that the prolonged disruption in Parliament ultimately weakens democratic accountability, as it limits the administration's accountability on legislation. Mr. O'Brien wrote on 'X', "When Parliament doesn't function, who benefits? *The government in power *The government is answerable to Parliament *Parliament is answerable to the people. When Parliament doesn't function, the government is not answerable to anyone."

According to information, the government may introduce the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha next week.

These comments come amid the ongoing political tussle between the government and the opposition during the current Monsoon session of Parliament, where frequent adjournments and protests have affected legislative business on several occasions. Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the government of avoiding detailed discussions on contentious issues and rushing through important laws in Parliament; the central government has consistently denied these allegations.

The 'Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act' (FCRA) mentioned by Mr. O'Brien in his post has been a controversial law. Opposition parties and several civil society organizations have alleged that its provisions are being used to restrict the functioning of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). However, the government claims that the law aims to ensure transparency and accountability in receiving and utilizing foreign aid while protecting national interests.

Mr. O'Brien's latest comments further intensify the opposition's criticism of the government's approach to parliamentary proceedings. Several opposition leaders have demanded more discussion and scrutiny of laws before they are passed. The government has said it is committed to carrying out legislative business and has accused opposition parties of repeatedly disrupting Parliament's proceedings with protests and sloganeering.