New Delhi: Over half of India's opposition lawmakers, comprising 141 members from the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), have been suspended from the ongoing parliamentary session. The suspension follows their demand for a debate on a recent protest during which a smoke canister was released in the legislature.

The protest on December 13 involved a man jumping from an overhead visitor's gallery onto the floor of the lower house and releasing yellow smoke. In response, 14 MPs were initially barred from the chamber. Subsequently, on Monday, an additional 78 opposition lawmakers were suspended, with 49 more facing suspension on Tuesday for shouting slogans and demanding the resignation of Interior Minister Amit Shah.

The opposition has accused the government of suppressing dissent and preventing meaningful debate on crucial bills. Prime Minister Narendra Modi labeled the security breach incident as "very serious" and ordered an investigation but dismissed the need for a debate. Critics argue that under Modi's leadership, India has seen a decline in political rights, civil liberties, and press freedoms, with increased police crackdowns on protests.