In a notable moment of political civility following a contentious parliamentary session, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was seen sharing a cup of tea with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday. The informal gathering was hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in his chamber after the conclusion of the Winter Session of Parliament.
A Gesture of Courtesy Amid Acrimony
The meeting, which included Union Ministers Chirag Paswan and Arjun Ram Meghwal along with MPs from various parties, presented a stark contrast to the heated proceedings that characterized the final days of the session. Visuals shared by the Press Trust of India showed Priyanka Gandhi seated next to Rajnath Singh, with PM Modi also present at the table.
This interaction took place on December 19, 2025, shortly after both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die. The Lok Sabha was adjourned following the playing of the national song, Vande Mataram, while the Rajya Sabha was adjourned soon after it convened at 11 am.
Session Marked by Protests and Disapproval
The Winter Session's final days were dominated by Opposition protests, particularly over the passage of the VB-G Ram G Bill. The disruptions drew strong criticism from presiding officers in both Houses.
Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan expressed severe disapproval of the conduct witnessed during the session. Referring specifically to protests during a minister's reply on Thursday, Radhakrishnan stated that actions like the tearing of papers were "unbecoming of the House." He urged members to reflect on their behaviour, highlighting the tense atmosphere that prevailed.
Priyanka's Parliamentary Engagement on Constituency Issue
Prior to this cordial tea meeting, Priyanka Gandhi had been actively pursuing a constituency matter through official channels. On Thursday, she sought an appointment with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari.
She aimed to raise concerns related to highway projects in her constituency, Wayanad, during the Question Hour in the Lok Sabha. This move underscored the continued, albeit formal, engagement between Opposition leaders and the government on developmental issues, even amidst broader political disagreements.
The tea hosted by Speaker Om Birla served as a traditional parliamentary gesture to mark the session's end. It demonstrated the formal decorum that can exist alongside fierce political debate, with leaders from across the spectrum participating. The presence of Priyanka Gandhi alongside senior BJP leaders provided a visual snapshot of this dual nature of Indian democracy—where political rivalry and institutional courtesy can coexist.
