Puducherry Assembly Adjourned Sine Die After 45-Minute Session Amid Opposition Protest

The Puducherry Legislative Assembly was adjourned sine die after a brief 45-minute session on September 19, 2025, following a protest by opposition members. The session commenced at 11:00 AM and was abruptly concluded after the Speaker ordered the expulsion of opposition MLAs and an independent member who had staged a sit-in within the chamber and lobby. The protest was in response to the government's refusal to extend the session to discuss pressing public issues, including safe drinking water and patient insurance. Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, who also holds the finance portfolio, presented multiple amendment bills during the truncated session. Despite the brief proceedings, the government proceeded to pass several bills, including amendments to the Puducherry Municipalities Act and the Puducherry Town and Country Planning Act. The opposition's demand for a longer session to address public concerns was not entertained, leading to heightened tensions within the assembly. The abrupt adjournment and the government's handling of the session have sparked debates regarding legislative procedures and the importance of addressing public grievances in a democratic setup. Opposition leaders have condemned the government's actions, asserting that the expulsion of elected representatives undermines the democratic process and the rights of the people they represent. In contrast, the ruling party maintains that the legislative agenda required timely completion and that the issues raised by the opposition could be addressed through other channels. The incident has drawn attention to the need for reforms in legislative practices to ensure that public concerns are adequately addressed and that the functioning of the assembly remains transparent and accountable. As the political landscape in Puducherry continues to evolve, the events of September 19 serve as a reminder of the challenges faced in balancing legislative efficiency with the imperative to address the pressing issues affecting the public.