Opposition Questions Special Parliament Session Timing, Demands Govt To Cite Agenda

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• Aug 31, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The opposition has questioned the timing of the government's five-day special session of parliament, which is...

Digital Desk: The opposition has questioned the timing of the government's five-day special session of parliament, which is scheduled from September 18 to 22. Notably, the government's announcement comes amid the Mumbai meeting of the newly formed opposition bloc, I.N.D.I.A.

Reportedly, the special session will begin at the old parliament building and will end at the new building.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said she is "surprised" by the government's choice of dates for a special session of parliament because they coincide with Ganesh Chaturthi.

"This special session called during India's most important festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is unfortunate and goes against the Hindu sentiments. Surprised at their choice of dates," Ms Chaturvedi said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Nationalist Congress Party MP Supriya Sule has asked Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi to reschedule the special session of parliament because it overlaps with the major festival.

"Just read about the upcoming Special Parliament Session... Whilst we all look forward towards meaningful discussions and dialogue, the dates coincide with the Ganapati festival, a major festival in Maharashtra. Urging the Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister to take the above into consideration," Sule said in a post on X.

Announcing the special session, Joshi stated that they are looking forward to "fruitful discussions and debate in parliament," but he did not specify what will be discussed.

The special session is likely to be held in the old building, government sources said, adding it won't be a joint session.

According to sources, the government will likely cover "Amrit Kaal" celebrations as well as subjects related to "India as a developed nation." It is unknown if important bills will be considered. The government is also likely to address the "Meri Maati Mera Desh" program, an endeavor to mark 75 years of independence. It marks the conclusion of the Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav program.

Several states will have elections later this year.