Kharge Criticizes PM's Absence at All-Party Meeting, Rijiju Responds

By Neev News Desk|Apr 2, 2026, 08:46 ISTUpdated: Apr 2, 2026, 11:30 IST2 min read
Kharge Criticizes PM's Absence at All-Party Meeting, Rijiju Responds

In a recent session of the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge raised concerns about Prime Minister Modi's absence from an all-party meeting focused on the Middle East crisis, leading to a response from Kiren Rijiju.

In the Rajya Sabha, a discussion regarding the ongoing crisis in the Middle East sparked a debate between Mallikarjun Kharge and Kiren Rijiju. Kharge, the leader of the Congress party, questioned the absence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from an all-party meeting that addressed the situation. He expressed concern that the Prime Minister's lack of participation might indicate a disregard for the gravity of the issue.

Kharge's Concerns

Kharge's remarks highlighted the importance of unity and collective action in addressing international crises. He emphasized that the Prime Minister's presence at such meetings is crucial for fostering a collaborative approach among political parties. According to a report by NDTV India News, Kharge's comments were met with a rebuttal from Rijiju, the Union Minister of Law and Justice. Rijiju defended the Prime Minister's absence, stating that the government is committed to addressing the crisis and that the Prime Minister's participation in every meeting is not always feasible.

Rijiju's Defense

Rijiju's response aimed to clarify the government's stance on the Middle East situation, asserting that the administration is actively engaged in discussions and actions related to the crisis. He underscored that the absence of the Prime Minister does not reflect a lack of seriousness regarding the matter. The exchange between Kharge and Rijiju illustrates the differing perspectives within the political landscape concerning the government's approach to international issues. As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, the discussions in the Rajya Sabha remain a focal point for addressing such critical topics.