New Delhi: The Monsoon Session of Parliament commences today, setting the stage for an intense month of legislative deliberations and political jousting. Scheduled to run until August 21, with a break for Independence Day celebrations from August 12 to 18, the session promises 21 sittings over 32 days.
Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, affirmed the government’s preparedness to discuss any important issue, provided it adheres to parliamentary rules. Leaders from various political parties have expressed their intent to raise a multitude of concerns and pledged cooperation for the smooth functioning of the Houses.
Government’s Ambitious Legislative Agenda:
The government has a packed agenda, with several crucial Bills expected to be introduced and passed. A key highlight is the Income-Tax Bill, 2025, which aims to replace the six-decade-old Income Tax Act, 1961, with a simpler, more certain tax framework to minimize litigation. The report of the parliamentary committee scrutinizing this Bill is expected to be tabled today.
Other significant Bills include:
- The Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025: To align state GST law with central legislation. An extension of President’s Rule in Manipur will also be sought.
- The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025: Focused on enhancing ease of doing business and regulatory compliance.
- The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025: Proposing a robust institutional framework for transparency and good governance in sports administration.
- The Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill, 2025: For the preservation of geological sites of national importance.
- The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025: To improve mining efficiency and expand the scope of critical minerals.
- The National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025: To align Indian sports law with global anti-doping protocols.
- Several shipping-related Bills, including The Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, The Indian Ports Bill, 2025, The Bills of Lading Bill, 2024, The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, and The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024.
- The Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025: To add IIM Guwahati to the existing Act.
- The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025: To amend certain tax laws.
- The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024.
Opposition Poised for Confrontation:
The Opposition, particularly the INDIA bloc, is set to challenge the government on a range of critical issues, promising a stormy session. Their primary points of attack include:
- Pahalgam Terror Attack and ‘Operation Sindoor’: The Opposition is demanding a detailed statement from the Defence Minister and Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the recent Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent “Operation Sindoor.” They seek clarity on accountability for the perpetrators and alleged lapses.
- US President Donald Trump’s Ceasefire Claims: Donald Trump’s repeated claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan following “Operation Sindoor” are a major concern. The Opposition insists on a statement from the Prime Minister to clarify India’s position and uphold its dignity.
- Bihar Electoral Roll Revisions (SIR): Concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar are high on the Opposition’s agenda, with allegations of potential voter disenfranchisement.
- Foreign Policy and Economic Issues: Broader discussions on foreign policy, perceived “drift,” farmers’ issues, unemployment, and inflation are also expected.
- Ahmedabad Plane Crash: The recent Ahmedabad plane crash, which resulted in significant casualties, and its controversial preliminary investigation report, will likely be debated.
- Impeachment Motions: The Opposition may also push for an impeachment motion against Justice Yashwant Varma and demand action against Justice Shekhar Yadav.
- Manipur Situation: Despite the government’s legislative actions regarding Manipur, the Opposition is expected to continue demanding a comprehensive discussion on the ongoing situation in the state.
With both the government and the Opposition determined to assert their narratives, the Monsoon Session is expected to be a period of robust debates and critical legislative actions, shaping the political landscape for the months to come.