Parliament Winter Session Commences: Opposition Prepares for Intense Debate, Legislative Agenda in Focus
The much-anticipated Winter Session of Parliament has officially begun, setting the stage for heated discussions and legislative activity. The session, which will run until December 20, is expected to witness intense debates as the Opposition plans to confront the Union government on several critical issues, including the ethnic violence in Manipur and allegations of bribery against prominent businessman Gautam Adani, as revealed by a US court indictment.
Legislative Agenda
The government has listed 16 bills for introduction, consideration, and passage during this session, reflecting its ambitious legislative agenda. Some key bills include:
- Waqf Amendment Bill: This bill is set for consideration and passage once the joint parliamentary committee submits its report to the Lok Sabha. The amendment aims to address longstanding issues related to Waqf properties.
- Punjab Courts (Amendment) Bill: This bill seeks to enhance the pecuniary jurisdiction of Delhi district courts, increasing the monetary threshold for cases from ₹3 lakh to ₹20 lakh. This change is expected to reduce the burden on higher courts by allowing more cases to be addressed at the district level.
Opposition’s Strategy
The Congress-led Opposition, spearheaded by Rahul Gandhi, is gearing up to raise critical issues during the session. Two key topics likely to dominate discussions are:
- Manipur Ethnic Violence: The Opposition intends to question the government on its handling of the ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur, demanding accountability and action.
- Adani Allegations: Allegations of bribery against Gautam Adani, following a US court indictment, have become a focal point for Opposition protests. The issue is expected to spark fierce debates in both Houses.
Proceedings So Far
Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned shortly after the session commenced, delaying discussions until 11 am on Wednesday. The adjournments reflect the charged atmosphere as lawmakers prepare for intense debates on key issues.
What to Expect
The Winter Session promises a mix of legislative work and politically charged debates. The government aims to advance its legislative agenda with bills addressing diverse sectors, while the Opposition seeks to hold the administration accountable on matters of governance and integrity.
As the session unfolds, the interplay between legislative business and political discourse will likely shape the narrative, making this a crucial period for the nation’s policymaking and democratic engagement.