Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a warm tribute to 59 retiring members of the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, describing the Upper House as an "open university" and urging the outgoing legislators to remain active in public life. Speaking during the biennial farewell, the Prime Minister mentioned that such occasions have a unique way of dissolving partisan divides, allowing a shared sentiment of respect to take precedence over political friction.
Addressing those set to depart between April and July, the Prime Minister offered a reassuring perspective on the transition. "In politics, there is no such thing as a full stop," he remarked, suggesting that the end of a parliamentary term merely opens a door to new endeavours where their accumulated experience will continue to benefit the nation. He reserved a particular note of admiration for the chamber’s veterans, specifically naming former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Sharad Pawar. PM Modi praised them as stalwarts "who have given more than half a century of their life to this institution," citing their attendance as a "vital blueprint" that should be followed by the next generation of parliamentarians.
The Prime Minister also found space to praise the service of the outgoing Deputy Chairman, Harivansh, calling him "a gentle soul, soft-spoken but capable of taking rigorous action. "He praised Harivansh's tireless efforts to engage with the youth on national issues during parliamentary recesses. In a lighter moment that drew laughter from across the benches, Modi singled out Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, calling him "evergreen" and expressing confidence that his energetic presence in public service would remain undiminished despite his departure from the House.
While reflecting on the role of the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi described the system of a bicameral legislature as a 'second opinion', which adds strength to the democratic process. He described how the passage of legislation through both Houses offers a "fresh perspective" that ensures all national decisions are fully discussed and refined. For those members of parliament who had the unique opportunity to serve in both the old and new parliament buildings throughout their six-year terms, Modi described their time in the House as an "education in the complexities of national affairs, an education that will stay with them for the rest of their lives."
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