Opposition parties demand ‘full agenda’ of special parliament session

The opposition is also advocating for a dedicated day to address people’s concerns

NEW DELHI | Updated: 18 September, 2023 10:36 am IST

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NEW DELHI: As the special parliament session commences today, opposition parties are insisting on having the ‘full agenda’ presented during the all-party meeting scheduled on Sunday. The opposition is also advocating for a dedicated day to address people’s concerns.

“So, out of the five days, one must be designated for addressing ‘people issues’ raised by the Opposition. One day should be allocated for discussions on topics such as price inflation, unemployment, and outstanding payments to the States,” sources from the opposition conveyed to The New Indian.

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Citing a parliamentary bulletin that states, “Statement not to be taken as exhaustive,” the opposition is questioning whether this implies that the government can introduce additional bills.

Furthermore, the opposition is urging the reinstatement of suspended MPs, raising the issue of the suspension of Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha and MP Sanjay Singh during the last day of the monsoon session in the Rajya Sabha due to alleged “inappropriate conduct.”

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The special session’s agenda includes The Post Office Bill 2023, The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill 2023, The Advocates (Amendment) Bill 2023, and the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, Terms of Office) Bill 2023.

Sources emphasize concerns over the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Bill, labeling it as “dangerous” and criticizing its timing, coming just months before elections. They describe it as anti-constitutional, anti-judicial, and anti-democratic.

On September 19, a photo session involving both houses took place. On September 20, 21, and 22, government business is scheduled to be conducted in the new parliament building.