In a spirited exchange in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, following a remark about Pal’s previous association with the Congress party. The discussion took place during a general debate on Budget 2026, with Pal presiding over the House in the absence of Speaker Om Birla.

Rahul Gandhi had attempted to make a light-hearted reference to Pal’s past Congress membership, stating, “We know you are an ex-member of our party, so I will not be very aggressive today.” Pal responded firmly, emphasizing his role as the presiding officer and questioning why Gandhi’s comment was necessary.

Taking the exchange further, Pal delivered a pointed jab at the Congress leader, stating, “Had you agreed to my advice, you would not be sitting there in the opposition. If you’re sitting there, it’s only because you have not taken my advice.” The remark drew attention from both Houses and social media alike.

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Jagdambika Pal, who joined the BJP in 2014, has represented the Domariyaganj constituency in Uttar Pradesh for three consecutive terms. He began his parliamentary career in 2009 as a Congress MP and has served as a minister in Uttar Pradesh. His early political journey also includes a brief tenure as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh for 31 hours in 1998 as a leader of the Loktantrik Congress Party.

Pal’s political career reflects a trajectory of shifting party affiliations and leadership roles, from Congress president in Uttar Pradesh to a senior BJP legislator. His tenure in the Lok Sabha has been marked by assertive interventions, as demonstrated in Wednesday’s exchange with Rahul Gandhi.

The interaction in Parliament comes amid broader discussions on the Union Budget, highlighting both procedural debates and the occasional political sparring between the ruling and opposition benches. Pal’s remarks have sparked widespread reactions, underlining the ongoing rivalry between BJP and Congress leaders in the House.

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