Parliament’s Winter Session opens to heat

New Delhi, Nov 25: The Winter Session of the Parliament, which began on Monday, was immediately disrupted and adjourned reflecting seething tensions between the government and the opposition.

The Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day as opposition members pressed for a debate on the Adani issue, while the Lok Sabha was adjourned until Wednesday.

There will be no parliamentary session on Tuesday to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Constituent Assembly’s adoption of the Constitution in 1949.

The Winter Session is supposed to continue until December 20.

The government has listed around 15 bills, including amendments to the Waqf law and five new legislations, for consideration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the tone for the session by sharply criticising opposition tactics, accusing them of undermining parliamentary proceedings for political gains.

“Unfortunately, some people who have been rejected by the public 80-90 times are trying to control the Parliament with the hooliganism of a handful of people,” he said.

The PM highlighted the importance of maintaining the sanctity of Parliament and providing a platform for constructive debates.

“There should be a healthy debate in Parliament, but, unfortunately, certain individuals resort to disruptions and chaos. Their sole purpose seems to be stopping the activities of Parliament. However, the people of this country observe their behaviour, and when the time comes, they punish them,” he said.

PM Modi also expressed concern over the impact of such actions on young MPs.

“It is most painful that new MPs, who come with new ideas and energy not just from one party but from all parties—are denied their rights. They do not even get a chance to speak in the House,” he said, highlighting the injustice faced by those eager to contribute.

The opposition, led by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, demanded a detailed discussion on the Adani issue, accusing the government of failing to protect the interests of retail investors.

In a tweet, Kharge said, “As the Parliament session begins, the first step the government should take is to have a detailed discussion on the Adani saga, which has the potential of tarnishing India’s image on the global stage.”

The Leader of the Opposition emphasised the INDIA bloc’s concerns about monopolies and cartels dominating the economy.

Urging the government to prioritise transparency and accountability, Khagre, in a tweet, said, “We need healthy market-driven competition in the private sector, which facilitates equal opportunities, employment, and equitable wealth distribution.”

However, the government remains optimistic about the session’s legislative agenda, despite adjournment, which includes some reforms.

The PM acknowledged the challenges posed by disruptions.

“Those who have been repeatedly rejected by the people neither allow discussions in Parliament nor respect the spirit of democracy. They do not understand the importance of people’s aspirations or their responsibilities,” PM Modi said, urging all MPs to work constructively.

The PM also appealed for unity and a forward-looking approach keeping into consideration the global impact.

“Today, the world is looking at India with great hope. Rarely does a country receive such opportunities as we have today. Let us ensure that Parliament reflects the aspirations of the people and strengthens India’s global standing,” he said.

As Parliament reconvenes on Wednesday, the stage is set for heated debates, particularly on the opposition’s demand for a discussion on the Adani issue.