Kharge Says Public Servants Never Retire, Shares Humor in Rajya Sabha Farewell

Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge participated in farewell proceedings for Rajya Sabha members retiring between April and July. He emphasized that passion for public service ensures people in politics never truly retire or tire. Kharge shared humorous anecdotes involving figures like H.D. Deve Gowda and Ramdas Athawale, lightening the mood. He also acknowledged the contributions of several retiring members to parliamentary debates.

Key Points: Kharge: People in Politics Neither Get Tired Nor Retire

  • Kharge highlights permanent nature of public service
  • Humorous remarks on Deve Gowda and Athawale
  • Bids farewell to retiring Rajya Sabha members
  • Notes the continuous, learning environment of the House
3 min read

People in politics or public life neither get tired nor retire: Rajya Sabha LoP Kharge

Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge bids farewell to retiring MPs, emphasizing enduring public service duty and sharing light moments.

"People in politics or public life neither get tired nor retire for the passion to serve the country. - Mallikarjun Kharge"

New Delhi, March 18

Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday joined members in bidding farewell to those set to retire from the Upper House, emphasising that commitment to public service continues beyond formal positions.

Kharge, who himself is scheduled to retire from the Rajya Sabha in June, participated in the farewell proceedings that began with members extending their good wishes to MPs retiring between April and July upon completion of their tenure.

Speaking during the discussion, Kharge highlighted the enduring nature of parliamentary responsibilities and the continuity of the House.

Addressing the House after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, "There are many members who will come back to the House; however, some might not get an opportunity to come back here... Rajya Sabha is a permanent and continuous House, as mentioned by the Prime Minister also. Every six years, members come here after getting elected, and every two years, one-third of the members retire. Today, the same is happening."

He underlined that those in public life remain driven by a sense of duty regardless of tenure.

"People in politics or public life neither get tired nor retire for the passion to serve the country," Kharge said.

Reflecting on his own experience, he noted that his tenure in the House had been enriching.

"I became a member of this House for the first time, and soon my tenure here will also end. However, the experience I got from the members in this House is enriching. The things that are discussed here are worth learning. Even after so many years in politics, I learn many things here," he added.

On a lighter note, Kharge made a humorous remark about former Prime Minister H.D. Devegowda, saying, "I have known him for several years, but I do not know what happened. Prem humare saath, shaadi Modi ji ke saath. This happened recently, but I don't know how," drawing laughter across the House, including from the Prime Minister.

Kharge also expressed satisfaction that NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar would be returning to the House again.

Speaking about the Republican Party of India chief and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, he said in a lighter vein, "Through his poems, he always praises PM Modi. Always. I don't think he knows any other poem than you (PM Modi)," again evoking laughter among members.

He also acknowledged the contributions of several retiring members, including Digvijaya Singh, K.T.S. Tulsi and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appreciating their role in enriching parliamentary debates and proceedings.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
It's heartening to see such camaraderie and respect across party lines during the farewell. The Rajya Sabha truly is a place for experienced voices, and we need that continuity in our democracy. His joke about Devegowda was hilarious! 😄
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Aman W
While the sentiment is noble, I respectfully disagree. Sometimes, retirement and fresh perspectives are needed. The same faces for decades can lead to stagnation. We need a balance of experience and new energy in public life.
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Rohit P
His point about learning even after so many years is key. Politics should be about serving and growing, not just power. Good to see senior leaders acknowledge that. The Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in that process.
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Michael C
Interesting to read about the proceedings. The institutional memory and continuity provided by bodies like the Rajya Sabha are crucial for any large democracy. The light-hearted moments show a healthy political culture.
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Kavya N
"Prem humare saath, shaadi Modi ji ke saath" – What a witty line! 😂 It's good to see our leaders can have a sense of humour. These human moments make politics more relatable. Wishing all retiring members the very best for their future service.

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