New Delhi [India], August 10 : Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske on Monday slammed the Opposition over the continued protests and disruptions in Parliament, alleging that the demonstrations were aimed at remaining in the headlines rather than contributing to parliamentary proceedings.
Speaking to ANI, Mhaske said, "As long as the media is around, and the desire is to stay in the headlines, such 'nautanki' (theatrics) are deemed necessary. Their advisors have suggested that if one maintains silence inside the House, one must stage theatrics and antics outside; that is precisely the spectacle playing out now."
His remarks came as Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla made an emotional appeal to floor leaders during a Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting, urging political parties to cooperate in restoring the smooth functioning of the House.
"Let the voice of the people be heard. Hold Question Hour. Discuss the key bills," Birla said, according to sources.
The Speaker emphasised the importance of constructive deliberations and meaningful participation, urging parties to uphold parliamentary traditions and ensure that issues concerning the people are discussed comprehensively.
"The people's issues cannot be left waiting in the corridors. They must be reflected, debated, and resolved here, on the floor of this House," Birla said.
Making a personal appeal to political parties, the Speaker added, "For democracy, for the people, please cooperate. Let the House function."
Earlier, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also accused the Opposition of obstructing parliamentary proceedings and said the government was prepared for a detailed discussion on student-related movements.
Rijiju said the government was ready to hold a "full and detailed discussion" on students' movements and activities associated with them, but urged Opposition members not to disrupt the Home Minister's official response.
"They must listen to the reply of the Home Minister and the government. Once discussion begins, we must have a threadbare discussion," Rijiju said.
The Lok Sabha was adjourned earlier in the day amid protests by Opposition MPs demanding a government response over police action during a students' protest at Jantar Mantar and alleged theft of donations meant for the Ram temple.
Proceedings have repeatedly been disrupted during the Monsoon Session, with six of the eight Bills passed by the Lok Sabha so far cleared without debate.
Amid the uproar on Monday, four Bills were introduced in the House, including the Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026, Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, and National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026.