Andalib Akhter / New Delhi
In a major political development ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has formally invited NCPI leader and Lok Sabha MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay to the customary meeting of floor leaders, marking the first official communication from the Centre acknowledging the newly-formed National Citizens Party of India (NCPI) as a parliamentary entity.
In a letter dated July 18, 2026, Rijiju noted that Bandyopadhyay, along with 19 other Members of Parliament, had joined the NCPI and had sought recognition from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, a matter currently under consideration.
Despite the Speaker’s decision pending, the Union Minister invited Bandyopadhyay, identified as “Leader in Lok Sabha, NCPI,” to participate in the all-party meeting convened to discuss key legislative business and ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament during the Monsoon Session.
The meeting of floor leaders of political parties in both Houses has been scheduled for July 19 at 11 am in the Main Committee Room of the Parliament House Annexe in New Delhi.
Rijiju also requested the presence of Dr Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, nominated as the Chief Whip of the NCPI, at the meeting.
The development assumes significance as it signals the government’s engagement with the fledgling political outfit even before the Lok Sabha Speaker takes a final call on its formal recognition. The NCPI, formed after a split involving 20 MPs, has emerged as a new force in Parliament and is expected to play an active role during the upcoming session, which begins on July 20.