BJP, INDIA Bloc face off with counter-protests on final day of Winter Session
Political storm in Parliament during Winter Session: 'One Nation, One Election' Bill sent to panel | No-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman dismissed | Amit Shah's remarks on Dr BR Ambedkar sparked row
PTC Web Desk: The final day of Parliament's Winter Session witnessed simultaneous protests by the BJP-led NDA and the Congress-led INDIA bloc outside the Parliament building, setting the stage for a contentious conclusion to the proceedings. This came after an intense face-off between the two political factions on Thursday within the Parliament premises.
Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are expected to experience turbulent discussions as the winter session, characterised by critical legislations, spirited debates, and frequent disruptions, draws to a close. Key highlights included debates on constitutional principles, federalism, and democracy, controversies over Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on Dr BR Ambedkar, and the no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s Lok Sabha debut also drew significant attention.
The session, which commenced on November 25, was plagued by disruptions early on, with opposition parties staging demonstrations over various issues. Chief among these was their demand for a discussion on the US indictment of industrialist Gautam Adani. The government’s refusal to entertain the demand led to persistent protests, significantly disrupting proceedings.
One of the session's major legislative initiatives was the 'One Nation, One Election' Bill, proposing synchronised elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Despite strong opposition citing concerns about federalism, the Bill was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for detailed review.
A no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, alleging partisan conduct, was dismissed due to procedural lapses, including insufficient notice and drafting errors.
Parliament also debated the Constitution, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments on Dr BR Ambedkar sparking protests. Opposition leaders accused the government of dishonouring the architect of the Constitution, while the BJP countered, attributing past constitutional amendments to Congress' political motives. The Congress demanded an apology and Amit Shah's resignation, alleging that a doctored video shared by the BJP intensified the controversy.
In a landmark moment, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was sworn in as an MP for Wayanad, Kerala, and delivered her maiden speech during a debate commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Constitution's adoption.
Allegations of links between Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and organisations reportedly funded by billionaire George Soros further heightened tensions. The BJP accused these organisations of destabilising India, while the Congress claimed the allegations were a diversion tactic.
The session also saw heated exchanges on the eve of the final day, with BJP and Congress members holding protests and accusing each other of disrespecting Dr BR Ambedkar. During one confrontation, a BJP MP sustained injuries, allegedly caused by Rahul Gandhi. The BJP accused him of misconduct, while Congress MPs filed a counter-complaint, citing misbehaviour by BJP members.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, intended to reform the administration of mosques and Muslim endowments, remains under consideration by the Joint Parliamentary Committee and has yet to be passed by the Lok Sabha.