The Communist Party of India (CPI) has called on the Central Government to ensure that the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament is devoted to meaningful discussions on a range of pressing national issues, stressing that Parliament must function as the country's highest forum for democratic accountability and public debate.
At the All-Party Meeting convened ahead of the commencement of the Monsoon Session, CPI Rajya Sabha leader P. Sandosh Kumar urged the Government to allow detailed deliberations on several matters that, according to the party, have significant implications for the lives of citizens and the functioning of democratic institutions.
One of the key demands raised by the CPI was the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over what the party described as repeated failures in the country's examination system. Kumar alleged that recurring examination paper leaks, cancellation of competitive examinations, and continuing irregularities in recruitment and assessment processes have severely affected the future of millions of students. He argued that these incidents have eroded public confidence in the credibility and transparency of India's education system and called for accountability at the highest level.
The CPI leader also sought a comprehensive discussion on the implementation of the Women's Reservation Act, stating that Parliament should deliberate on the timeline and roadmap for ensuring greater political representation for women in legislative bodies. He maintained that the issue remains a significant democratic commitment that requires urgent attention.
Kumar further highlighted concerns over the growing trend of political defections, saying that frequent shifts in political allegiance undermine the mandate of voters and weaken democratic values. He urged Parliament to examine measures that would strengthen anti-defection provisions and safeguard the integrity of elected institutions.
The CPI also expressed concern over the reported large-scale deletion of voters' names during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Kumar called for a detailed discussion on the issue, emphasizing that the electoral process must remain transparent, inclusive, and free from any action that could potentially disenfranchise eligible voters.
Economic issues also figured prominently in the party's agenda. Kumar urged the Government to address the continuing burden of inflation and rising prices, which he said continue to impact households across the country. He also sought a debate on the Centre's ethanol blending policy, raising concerns about its possible implications for food security, agricultural production, and the livelihood of farmers.
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The CPI leader further called for discussions on the nationwide protest scheduled for August 10 by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and various Central Trade Unions (CTUs). He said Parliament should take note of the concerns being raised by farmers and workers and provide a platform for addressing issues related to employment, labour rights, and agriculture.
Among the other issues highlighted by Kumar were the reported closure of government schools in several parts of the country and the demand for the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that both matters carry significant social and constitutional implications and deserve comprehensive parliamentary debate.
In addition, the CPI urged the Government to facilitate a discussion on India's foreign policy amid rapidly evolving global geopolitical developments. Kumar said the country should continue to uphold its long-standing tradition of pursuing an independent and balanced foreign policy while protecting national interests in an increasingly complex international environment.
Expressing concern over what he described as the Government's reluctance to allow discussions on issues of public importance, Kumar said Parliament should not be reduced to a forum for merely passing legislation without adequate debate.
"Parliament is the highest forum of democratic accountability, and the Monsoon Session must provide adequate time for meaningful debate rather than becoming a mere legislative formality," he said.
He urged the Government to respond to the concerns of citizens through transparent discussions, constructive engagement, and accountability, asserting that democratic governance requires openness to scrutiny and meaningful parliamentary deliberation on issues affecting the nation.
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