The upcoming winter session of Parliament is set to begin on November 25 and conclude on December 20, subject to the exigencies of government business. Notably, there will be no sitting of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on November 26, as the day is designated for commemorating “Constitution Day.”
The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs announced this decision, reflecting the significance of the day in India's democratic history.
Before the session begins, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju will convene an all-party meeting on November 24 at 11 AM in the Main Committee Room of Parliament House Annexe.
This meeting, presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, aims to discuss the agenda and ensure smooth functioning during the session.
The government’s legislative focus during the winter session is likely to include the Waqf Amendment Bill, which is currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
The committee has been holding consultations across states with various stakeholders to address concerns and seek consensus on the proposed amendments.
Additionally, there is speculation that the government may introduce the “One Nation, One Election” bill, an ambitious initiative that has been widely debated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly advocated for the “One Nation, One Election” concept, emphasising its potential to streamline electoral processes and optimise the use of resources.
According to the Prime Minister, simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies could enhance democratic efficiency and propel India closer to its developmental aspirations.
Modi also linked this initiative to broader reforms, including the introduction of a Uniform Civil Code, asserting that these measures aim to strengthen India’s democratic fabric.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism from opposition leaders. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge dismissed the “One Nation, One Election” idea as impractical, citing the need for extensive consensus-building in Parliament.
He argued that achieving such a sweeping reform would be nearly impossible, given the logistical and political challenges involved.
The Waqf Amendment Bill is another critical item on the session's agenda. The bill aims to address longstanding issues related to the administration and governance of Waqf properties.
The Joint Parliamentary Committee has been actively engaging with stakeholders to navigate through contentious aspects of the bill, ensuring inclusivity in its approach.
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