Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha on the first day of the Special Session of Parliament, which commenced on Monday, September 18. This five-day session, set to conclude on September 22, holds immense significance as it not only marks an important legislative agenda but also commemorates the 75-year journey of the Indian Parliament.During this extraordinary session, approximately eight crucial bills have been listed for consideration and passage. Furthermore, discussions will revolve around Parliament's remarkable 75-year history. The proceedings are to take place in the new Parliament building, marking another historical moment in India's parliamentary history.
A notable event preceding the session was the hoisting of the national flag atop the "Gaja Dwar" of the new Parliament building by Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. This symbolic gesture emphasized the importance of this new architectural marvel in the nation's capital.
The announcement of this Special Session came as a surprise to many in the political landscape, particularly as parties are gearing up for assembly elections in five states later this year. Opposition parties have expressed criticism, mainly directed at the BJP-led central government, for calling a special session of Parliament without revealing the agenda.
Among the key demands raised during this session is the passage of the Women's Reservation Bill by the Congress party. Jairam Ramesh, Congress's general secretary, highlighted the historical context of this demand, tracing it back to Rajiv Gandhi's initiative in 1989. Despite passing in the Lok Sabha, the bill faced an obstacle in the Rajya Sabha in September of the same year.
The journey of the Women's Reservation Bill continued, with Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao reintroducing it in April 1993. This time, the bill successfully passed in both Houses and became law. Dr. Manmohan Singh, during his tenure as Prime Minister, also made efforts to bring a Constitution Amendment Bill for one-third reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures. Although it passed in the Rajya Sabha in 2010, it remained pending in the Lok Sabha.
Importantly, bills introduced or passed in the Rajya Sabha do not lapse, ensuring that the Women's Reservation Bill remains an active legislative proposal.
The Special Session of Parliament is poised to address these and other critical legislative matters, showcasing the continued commitment of the Indian Parliament to uphold democratic values and promote inclusivity. As the nation watches these deliberations unfold, it remains a testament to the resilience and adaptability of India's parliamentary system in the face of evolving challenges.
