On December 3, during the Winter Session of Parliament, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Lok Sabha about recent developments in India-China bilateral relations. He emphasized that India-China ties cannot be normal until there is peace in border areas, referring to the recent agreement on disengagement and patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Jaishankar highlighted that the immediate priority was to ensure disengagement from friction points, which has now been fully achieved. He also acknowledged that disruptions in 2020 had negatively impacted relations, requiring a recalibrated approach for long-term peace.
Bills to be Tabled in Lok Sabha
After a week-long standoff between the government and the opposition, Parliament resumed normal proceedings. On Tuesday, two important bills are set to be tabled in the Lok Sabha: the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill and the Railways (Amendment) Bill. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju mentioned that the Lok Sabha will debate the Constitution on December 13-14, followed by a Rajya Sabha discussion on December 16-17.
Why the First Week Was a Washout
The first week of the Winter Session saw repeated adjournments in both Houses, largely due to the Opposition’s demands for a discussion on Adani bribery allegations. The Opposition, primarily from the Congress, also raised concerns over issues like Manipur unrest and Sambhal violence, which led to a disruption of proceedings since the session began on November 25.