The call for a special session follows a series of dramatic developments:
Pahalgam Terror Attack: On April 22, 2025, a deadly terrorist assault in Pahalgam claimed 26 civilian lives, triggering national outrage and demands for a strong response.
Operation Sindoor: In retaliation, the Indian armed forces launched targeted strikes on nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7, escalating tensions along the border.
Ceasefire Announcement: After days of intense hostilities, a ceasefire was announced-first publicly by US President Donald Trump, and later confirmed by the governments of India and Pakistan.
In his letter to PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi reiterated the unanimous request of all opposition parties to convene a special session of Parliament immediately. He emphasized that such a session is crucial for the following reasons:
Transparency and Accountability: Gandhi argued that the people and their elected representatives must have the opportunity to discuss critical national security issues, including the Pahalgam attack, Operation Sindoor, and the ceasefire.
Demonstrating Unity: He stated that a special session would allow Parliament to display collective resolve in the face of ongoing challenges and send a strong message of unity to both citizens and the international community.
Government Clarification: The session would provide a platform for the government to clarify its strategy, the nature of the ceasefire, and the role of international mediation, particularly the involvement of the United States.
“It is crucial for the people and their representatives to discuss the Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor and today’s ceasefire, first announced by US President Trump. This will also be an opportunity to demonstrate our collective resolve to meet the challenges ahead. I trust that you will consider this demand seriously and swiftly,” Gandhi wrote
Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, also wrote to the Prime Minister, supporting Gandhi’s request. Kharge recalled earlier letters dated April 28, urging a special session in response to the Pahalgam attack and subsequent security developments.
The demand for a special session highlights the seriousness of the current security environment and the need for a unified, transparent approach from the government and opposition alike. Special sessions are rare and typically reserved for extraordinary circumstances, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The move is seen as a step towards greater accountability and public engagement on issues of national importance.
It remains to be seen whether the government will accede to the opposition’s demand. If convened, the special session is expected to feature robust debate on India’s security strategy, the effectiveness of Operation Sindoor, the ceasefire’s implications, and the broader trajectory of India-Pakistan relations.