The ongoing Budget Session of Parliament witnessed a massive showdown today over former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane’s memoir. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi spear-headed the attack, citing a direct contradiction between General Naravane’s previous tweets about the book’s availability and Penguin Publication’s claim that the book was never released. Rahul Gandhi demanded a formal discussion on whether the government exerted pressure to stall the publication. The ensuing uproar from the opposition benches forced the Speaker to adjourn the Lok Sabha until 12 PM.

Tensions and Tactical Maneuvers: Behind the scenes, the INDIA alliance floor leaders met at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s office to draft a joint strategy. Speculation is rife that the Congress might move a No-Confidence Motion against the Speaker if Rahul Gandhi is barred from raising the issue on the floor. However, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has reportedly signaled its reluctance to support such a drastic step immediately, highlighting a slight rift in the opposition ranks. Congress MP Tariq Anwar accused the Modi government of being “anti-parliamentary,” alleging that the treasury benches are systematically stifling dissent. As the standoff intensifies, the Naravane book controversy has emerged as the central flashpoint of the 2026 Budget Session.