Rajya Sabha Debate Turns Heated Over Raj Bhavan Renaming, MGNREGA Remarks Expunged
Rajya Sabha Row: Renaming Raj Bhavans Sparks War of Words

Rajya Sabha Session Erupts in Controversy

A scheduled discussion in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, descended into a heated exchange as lawmakers clashed over the proposed renaming of official governor residences, known as Raj Bhavans. The debate, which was anticipated to focus on historical and administrative aspects, took an unexpected and contentious turn, leading to direct intervention from the presiding Chair.

From Renaming to Rural Jobs: Dola Sen Shifts the Debate

The focal point of the disruption was Trinamool Congress MP Dola Sen. While participating in the discussion on Raj Bhavans, Sen diverted from the main topic to raise additional issues, prominently including the implementation and funding of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This sudden shift in subject matter introduced a new layer of political tension into the proceedings.

The move prompted immediate reaction from other members and ultimately required the Chair to step in. The official presiding over the session clearly stated that the remarks which deviated from the original topic of discussion would not be recorded in the official parliamentary records.

Chair's Intervention and Expunging of Remarks

In a decisive move to maintain order and relevance, the Chair intervened during the war of words. It was explicitly declared that the portions of Sen's comments which strayed into discussions about MGNREGA and other unrelated matters would be expunged from the official record. This action underscores the strict parliamentary rules governing the relevance of speeches during specific debates.

The incident highlights how discussions in the Upper House can quickly pivot from their intended subject to touch upon broader, politically sensitive issues, often leading to procedural interventions. The events of December 3 showcase the ongoing political friction that characterizes many parliamentary sessions, even on topics that may initially seem procedural.

The final outcome was a debate that remained officially focused on the issue of Raj Bhavan renaming, but one that was notably marked by a significant interjection and subsequent parliamentary enforcement of decorum. The expunged remarks, while not part of the permanent record, reflect the underlying political currents and priorities of the participating parties.