The winter session of Parliament begins under a significant shadow. Several opposition parties have united against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. They are threatening to stall proceedings if a discussion on the issue is not allowed.
At a government-convened all-party meeting, this demand was front and center. Parties linked the SIR discussion to national security after the Delhi blast and the capital’s air pollution. The government sought opposition support for smooth functioning.
Other pressing issues were also raised for the session. These include foreign policy, price rise, and unemployment. New labour codes and federalism disputes over governors and state funds are also on the agenda.
The government promised to continue engaging with all parties. It aims to ensure the session runs smoothly despite the clear tensions.
In Business Advisory Committee meetings, the opposition refined its stance. They demanded a discussion on broader electoral reforms, not just SIR specifically. The government assured it would convey its views soon.
A government push for a discussion on Vande Mataram met with little enthusiasm. Several opposition parties, though not the TMC, showed no interest in prioritizing this topic.
The Rajya Sabha BAC meeting ended without a conclusion. It is scheduled to reconvene on Monday evening to try again.
Opposition leaders laid out their terms clearly. They want Parliament to function by starting a SIR discussion at 2 pm. They stated the government would bear responsibility for any disruption.
The ruling NDA, emboldened by its Bihar victory, has its own plans. It is likely to introduce 14 legislations to advance its reform agenda. This is the first session following that emphatic poll result.
Fifty leaders from 36 political parties attended the crucial all-party meeting. The high turnout underscores the session’s contentious start.
Senior government ministers were present at the talks. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP president J P Nadda attended. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and his deputies were also there.
The stage is set for a challenging winter session. The SIR issue remains the primary flashpoint. How it is handled will determine the parliamentary tempo.
Both sides are preparing for a potential showdown. The opposition is united in its demand for a debate on SIR. The government is focused on passing its legislative business.
The coming days will test parliamentary diplomacy. Engagement continues, but positions appear firmly held. The shadow of SIR is long and divisive.