Today marks the commencement of the five-day “Amrit Kaal” session of the Indian Parliament. This special session’s agenda includes discussions on the evolution of India’s parliamentary democracy, with eight bills listed for deliberation. Here are the top 10 points of significance in this noteworthy event:
1. Prime Minister’s Nostalgic Note: Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the discussion on the 75 years of the Indian Parliament with a nostalgic touch in the Lok Sabha. He reminisced about his first visit to the Parliament building, where he paid his respects. The PM acknowledged that this venerable Parliament building was a result of the sweat, hard work, and contributions of the country’s citizens.
2. Inspiration for Future Generations: While addressing the Lok Sabha, PM Modi emphasized the significance of remembering the inspirational moments associated with the old Parliament building. He mentioned that although they might be moving to a new structure, this historic building will continue to inspire future generations.
3. Historic Significance: PM Modi underscored that this Parliament witnessed pivotal moments, including Pandit Nehru’s iconic “stroke of midnight hour” speech, which remains a source of inspiration for all. However, he also pointed out that it had witnessed controversial events, such as the ‘cash for votes’ scam during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s tenure.
4. Transition to New Parliament Building: The Lok Sabha Speaker confirmed that proceedings would shift to the new Parliament building starting tomorrow. However, the Lok Sabha’s meeting began with heated exchanges, with some Opposition members raising concerns about the National Anthem being played twice. Speaker Om Birla attributed this to technical failure and promised to investigate the matter.
5. Central Hall Gathering: Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs convened in the Central Hall today for a special function, aiming to commemorate the rich legacy of the Indian Parliament. They also resolved to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, followed by a photo session.
6. Shift to New Parliament Building: After today’s Central Hall function, the session will move to the new parliament building. A small puja ceremony might take place tomorrow, coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi. Legislative business during this session will include bills such as the Post Office Bill, the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill.
7. Flag Raising Ceremony: Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar raised the national flag on the new building on Sunday. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge were absent due to prior engagements.
8.Push for Women’s Reservation Bill: At an all-party meeting, several regional parties, including Biju Janata Dal and Bharat Rashtra Samithi, advocated for the tabling of the women’s reservation bill. However, Opposition leaders deemed the special session a “diversionary tactic” and called for prioritizing critical issues.
9. Sonia Gandhi’s Letter: Earlier, Sonia Gandhi had written to PM Modi, listing nine issues, including the violence in Manipur and the wrestlers’ protest, for discussion in the special session.
This special parliamentary session serves as a platform to reflect on the rich history and democratic journey of India’s Parliament while looking ahead to the nation’s future challenges and aspirations.