A major political confrontation unfolded in the Lok Sabha during the Budget debate after Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi expanded his speech beyond fiscal issues to target the India-US trade deal and the government's foreign policy stance. Rahul Gandhi alleged that India's interests had been compromised because the United States had a "chokehold" over the government and the Prime Minister.
He also raised references to the so-called Epstein files, naming Union Minister Hardeep Puri and questioning the government's silence. In response, Puri strongly denied the allegations, calling them baseless and unauthenticated. The government has warned that unless Rahul Gandhi substantiates his claims, it will move a privilege motion against him. The Speaker also urged Gandhi to authenticate serious allegations made on the floor of the House.