Foreign Minister Jaishankar to Brief Parliament on West Asia, Russian Oil Waiver, and Trade Deal Developments

India's Budget Session Continues Amid Confrontation and Foreign Policy Debate

The second half of India's budget session, which resumes on Monday, is expected to begin amid confrontation between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition over several issues, including a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will make a statement in Parliament on the evolving situation in West Asia, addressing concerns over the safety of Indians living in Gulf countries. The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the region, triggered by the ongoing Israel–Iran conflict, which has disrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy chokepoint.

The conflict has significant economic implications, with nearly a quarter of global oil supplies passing through the strait. The opposition has indicated plans to question the government on the broader geopolitical and economic implications of the conflict, including the United States administration's waiver allowing India to purchase Russian oil for 30 days.

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The opposition has criticized the format of the ministerial statement, arguing that it does not allow members to seek clarifications. Congress general secretary and Rajya Sabha member Jairam Ramesh has expressed concerns that the statement will not provide valuable information and will not allow MPs to ask questions.

The government and the opposition are also preparing to confront each other over a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The NDA is expected to counter opposition criticism by raising issues related to protocol during President Droupadi Murmu's recent visit to West Bengal.

The budget session is scheduled to continue until April 2, during which the government is required to pass the Finance Bill and complete parliamentary approval for demands for grants for various ministries. The session is also expected to take place against the backdrop of upcoming assembly elections in four states and one Union territory, including West Bengal, which is scheduled to vote in April–May.