Oppn important, it shouldn't vent frustration in House: PM

The Opposition should not vent the frustration of its electoral defeats in Parliament, and instead shed negativity and confrontational attitudes to move forward in national interest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he hailed the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) sweep of elections in three key heartland states.

- Saptarshi Das

Speaking outside Parliament on the opening day of the winter session, Modi termed his party's impressive victories in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh encouraging signs for those committed to the well-being of the common person and the future of the country, even as he advised the Opposition to embrace positivity.

"Based on the current election results, I would like to tell my Opposition colleagues that they have a golden opportunity. Instead of planning to vent frustration over the defeat in this session, if they learn from it, shun the idea of negativity that has been prevalent for the past nine years, and move forward with positivity, the country's perspective towards them will change," Modi said.

"A new door may open for them... and even if they are in the Opposition, I am giving them good advice to come forward with positive thoughts. If we take 10 steps, then you should take 12 steps while making decisions," he added.

The winter session is expected to be stormy over the imminent expulsion of embattled Trinamool Congress member Mahual Moitra in connection with cashfor-query allegations, the passage of a raft of important but controversial bills (such as those to replace India's legal codes) and polarising issues such as the ongoing violence in Manipur and allegations of irregularities against the Adani Group.

"Everyone's future is bright; there's no need for despair. But please, do not vent the frustration of defeat in the House. There might be disappointment. Your colleagues may have to do something to show their strength. But, at least, do not turn this temple of democracy into a platform for expressing frustration," said Modi, flanked by Union ministers Prahlad Joshi, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Jitendra Singh.