Andalib Akhter / New Delhi
The Monsoon Session of Parliament is likely to be held from July 20 to August 14, with indications of a politically charged sitting as the Opposition prepares to corner the government over a series of contentious issues.
The Congress-led Opposition is expected to demand detailed discussions on the alleged irregularities in the Ayodhya Trust donations and the alleged land scam in Madhya Pradesh. The Opposition has intensified its attack on the Madhya Pradesh government, seeking accountability from the Chief Minister over the land controversy, setting the stage for stormy proceedings in both Houses.
The government, on the other hand, is expected to focus on its legislative agenda. With the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) poised to expand its strength through the induction of new members, the ruling coalition is optimistic about improving its numbers in Parliament. The enhanced strength could bolster the government’s ability to secure the special majority required for the passage of key legislation and other parliamentary business.
The session is also expected to witness crucial decisions by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on pending disqualification and merger matters. A ruling is awaited on the proposed merger of a group of 20 rebel Trinamool Congress MPs with the NCPI, as well as on the status of six Members of Parliament belonging to the breakaway Shiv Sena (UBT) faction aligned with the Shinde group. The Speaker’s decisions are likely to have significant political implications ahead of the session.
Another important item on the parliamentary agenda is the report relating to impeachment proceedings against Justice Verma. The report is expected to be tabled in the Lok Sabha during the session, following which the House may initiate the process for considering the motion for his removal.
With politically sensitive issues, key legislative business and significant constitutional matters expected to come up, the Monsoon Session is likely to be among the most closely watched parliamentary sittings of the year.