59 Rajya Sabha members stepping down; no full stop in politics: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in the Rajya Sabha that there is no full stop in politics and that leaders should continue in public life. He was speaking at a farewell function held in the Rajya Sabha for members whose terms are ending.

A total of 59 Rajya Sabha members will retire between April and July. The farewell was held for leaders, including H. D. Deve Gowda, whose term ends on June 26, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, whose term ends on June 12, and NCP leader Sharad Pawar.

The Prime Minister praised the contributions of the leaders. He said the Rajya Sabha is like an open university. He added that new members should learn from the experience of senior leaders. He said both agreement and disagreement are useful for Parliament. He also said some of those retiring may return. For those who may not return, he said, there is no end to anything in politics.

During the farewell speech, Mallikarjun Kharge made a light remark about H. D. Deve Gowda, which drew laughter in the House. Kharge said he had known Deve Gowda for 54 years. “He loved us, but married Modi,” Kharge said, referring to JD(S) joining the NDA after a long alliance with the Congress. Prime Minister Modi also laughed at the remark. Deve Gowda was not present in the House at that time.

Later, Deve Gowda responded through a statement. He said the alliance with the Congress was forced and had become abusive. He said that is why he chose to end it. He also recalled that in 2018, the Congress had promised the Chief Minister’s post to his son but later withdrew it.