The winter session of Parliament kicks off today, with several important bills set for discussion. Among them is the Waqf Act (Amendment) Bill, along with others such as the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, and the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill. The session, which runs until December 20, will also feature the Railways (Amendment) Bill, Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, and the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, to name a few.
In a significant update, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will not meet on November 26 to mark Constitution Day.
Opposition Gears Up for Key Discussions
Before the session begins, the floor leaders of INDIA bloc parties will meet at 10 am at Parliament House to finalize their strategy. Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, is expected to lead the opposition’s approach to this session.
The opposition, including Congress, plans to raise several key issues, including the Waqf Bill, the Manipur crisis, and bribery charges against the Adani Group.
Government Ready for Debate
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the Union government is “ready to discuss any topic” during the session, calling for a peaceful and productive discussion. Rijiju added that 42 leaders from 30 political parties participated in an all-party meeting, where multiple topics were raised for debate. However, he emphasized the need for a smooth-running session, free from disruptions, to allow for meaningful discussions.
“The government is open to any debate. Our only request is that the session proceeds without disruptions, allowing all members to participate effectively,” said Kiren Rijiju.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over the all-party meeting, which was attended by floor leaders from all political parties in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.