Winter session of Parliament kicks off, govt to introduce 16 key bills amid expected disruptions

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The political landscape in India has shifted significantly since the Lok Sabha elections, and the stance of opposition parties suggests that the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, beginning today, is likely to be turbulent.

During an all-party meeting held on Sunday to ensure the smooth functioning of the session, opposition parties pressed for discussions on key issues such as the Adani controversy and the violence in Manipur. These issues are expected to lead to disruptions in the proceedings. The government, on the other hand, plans to introduce around 16 bills during the session, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the One Nation, One Election Bill, both of which have already faced strong opposition.

The results of the recent Assembly elections in Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand, as well as by-elections in various states, are also likely to influence the tone and direction of parliamentary discussions during this session, which will continue until December 20.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, in the all-party meeting, mentioned that the government had listed 16 bills for discussion, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Punjab Court (Amendment) Bill. The government is also considering introducing the One Nation, One Election Bill, which has been previously indicated. Rijiju assured that the government was ready to discuss all matters in accordance with the rules and hoped for a session without disruptions.

Meanwhile, the Joint Committee of Parliament (JCP), headed by Jagdambika Pal, is expected to submit its report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill by the end of the first week of the session. However, opposition parties have demanded an extension of the time allocated for the committee.

Gaurav Gogoi, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has called for a discussion on the bribery allegations involving Adani, along with debates on the violence in Manipur, the hazardous air pollution in North India, and the recent rail accidents.

In the Rajya Sabha, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Pramod Tiwari emphasized the seriousness of the bribery allegations against Adani, involving an alleged 2,000 crore rupees paid to influence business in the US. Tiwari urged the government to initiate a discussion on this matter and hold those responsible accountable, calling for the immediate arrest of Adani.

The all-party meeting was attended by 42 leaders from 30 parties, including BJP President JP Nadda, Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Pramod Tiwari, Jairam Ramesh, T. Shivan, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Anupriya Patel, and others.