With the Winter Session of Parliament set to begin on Monday, the Union Government has convened an all-party meeting on Sunday to build consensus and ensure smooth legislative proceedings. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the meeting will offer every political party an opportunity to share its views and concerns.
Speaking to IANS, Rijiju said the Centre is approaching the session with an open mind. “There is an all-party meeting tomorrow, and we will listen to everyone there. Regarding the advisories issued on parliamentary conduct, every Member is well aware of the established norms,” he stated.
The meeting, chaired by Rijiju, will see participation from floor leaders of all major political parties from both Houses. The government is expected to seek cooperation to avoid disruptions as an extensive legislative agenda is lined up for the session, scheduled from December 1 to December 19.
Focus on ‘Vande Mataram’—150 Years of the National Song
In a significant move, the Winter Session will open with a full-day discussion on Vande Mataram, marking 150 years of the national song. This comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks highlighting how the omission of key stanzas in 1937 weakened the song’s spirit and, according to him, contributed to the divisive politics that preceded Partition.
“In 1937, important verses that embodied the soul of Vande Mataram were removed. That act sowed the seeds of division, and the same mindset is a challenge even today,” the Prime Minister had said during a November 7 address.
Government to Introduce 10 Major Bills
According to sources, the Centre is expected to table 10 significant Bills covering nuclear energy, higher education reforms, corporate regulations, and changes to the securities market. Several of these are expected to trigger intense debate.
Opposition to Target EC Over Voter List Revisions
Meanwhile, the Opposition is preparing for a combative session. Leaders are expected to raise strong objections to the Election Commission’s ongoing voter roll revision exercise in nine states and Union Territories, alleging that the process is being rushed and could lead to discrepancies.
