BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
The Monsoon Session of Parliament 2025, which began on July 21, has been marked by intense debates and disruptions over critical issues like Operation Sindoor, the Pahalgam terror attack, and Bihar’s voter list revision. Amidst this charged atmosphere, a refreshing and humorous interaction unfolded on July 22 outside the Parliament House, capturing the attention of onlookers and social media alike. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Union Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Giriraj Singh shared a warm and unexpected exchange that briefly lightened the tense political mood.
The incident occurred when Giriraj Singh was addressing the media, reportedly making pointed remarks against Akhilesh Yadav and the SP’s stance on various issues. Unbeknownst to Singh, Akhilesh was standing nearby, calmly listening with a smile. In a moment that showcased his wit, Akhilesh stepped forward, leading to a cordial embrace between the two leaders, much to the amusement of those present. The interaction, captured on video, quickly went viral, with posts on X describing it as a rare instance of camaraderie in the often combative world of Indian politics. Accompanying Akhilesh were SP MP Dharmendra Yadav and other party members, adding to the lively scene.
Akhilesh, known for his sharp social media presence, capitalized on the moment by posting on X: “The world bows to the one who makes it bow,” quoting a popular Hindi proverb. The post included a picture of himself, Dharmendra Yadav, his team of MPs, and Giriraj Singh, encapsulating the jovial spirit of the encounter. The phrase, a nod to his ability to navigate political challenges with charm, resonated widely, drawing reactions ranging from amusement to admiration.
This light-hearted exchange stood in stark contrast to the session’s contentious proceedings, where Akhilesh and the opposition have been vocal about issues like the Pahalgam attack and electoral reforms. While the government, represented by figures like Singh, has faced criticism, this moment highlighted the human side of politics. As the Monsoon Session continues until August 21, such interactions remind us that even in the heat of political battles, moments of levity can bridge divides, if only briefly.
