New Delhi – Samajwadi Party Member of Parliament Jaya Bachchan made a strong speech in the Rajya Sabha, Wednesday. She expressed her concern about the terror attack that occurred in Pahalgam and questioned the handling of the issue by the Indian government after Article 370 was repealed. Bachchan’s forthright manner was evident as she dealt with interruptions during the discussion and called attention to naming the operation.
Bachchan asked, during the conversation, “Why is this operation called Sindoor?” At least I’ll congratulate [the members of the Treasury Bench] on having writers like Sindoor who can come up with such big names. In her statement, she referred to the cultural and symbolic weight of the term used to emphasize India’s precision attack against Pakistan as a response to the Pahalgam attacks.
When members of the Treasury bench interrupted her, the debate became heated. Bachchan responded quickly, saying, “When I hear you, I do not interrupt.” If a woman is speaking, I will never interrupt. Please be careful with your words.” This strong retort was delivered after BJP member Surendra Singh Nagar reminded Jaya ji to direct her remarks to the Chair. What you say is recorded.
Bachchan’s comments were not only about the verbal spat in Parliament. She also questioned whether the government would keep its word after the repeal of Article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special autonomy. She questioned, highlighting the severity of the terrorist attack, whether the handling of the incident by the government truly reflected its promises of greater security and stability for the region.
Bachchan said, “I’m not going to pay attention, but I have sharp ears.” The moment was captured on the broadcast. What can I say about it? “I can’t do it.” Her unfazed expression was evident. Priyanka Chaturvedi, Shiv Sena MP (UBT), was smiling beside her.
Bachchan is a powerful presence in the Parliament because she has fought for issues and defended them with passion. In her long career as a public figure and politician, she has advocated for transparency, the welfare of citizens, and women’s empowerment. She has been known to be bold in her recent comments during the Operation Sindoor discussion.
Pahalgam’s terror attack, the cause of the current debate, has rekindled the conversation about national security and whether or not the policies that were implemented after Article 370 are effective. As opposition voices such as Bachchan question whether promised reforms or assurances are delivering tangible results, the attack has brought the government into the spotlight.
Bachchan’s clear statement, “Either I speak or you speak,” emphasized not only her frustration at interruptions, but her desire to be heard in an environment that often is dominated by more loud and disruptive voices. Many women, both in and out of politics, who want to be heard without interruptions will resonate with Bachchan’s call for respect.
Jaya Bachchan’s powerful and honest demeanor continues to hold the establishment responsible while asserting that she is equal in all legislative proceedings.
About Jaya Bachchan
Jaya Bachchan is a veteran actress-turned-politician and a Member of Parliament representing the Samajwadi Party. She has been an MP in the Indian Parliament since 2004. Her advocacy of rights is particularly for women and marginalized groups, as well as her openness during parliamentary discussions.
