Winter Session of Parliament begins amidst political tensions and legislative activity

The Winter Session of Parliament commenced today with notable activity in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, reflecting a mix of political tensions and key legislative business. Despite disruptions leading to multiple adjournments, the session saw important discussions and bill introductions as lawmakers geared up for a crucial phase of governance.

In the Rajya Sabha, the day’s highlight was a series of speeches welcoming Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan as the new Chairman of the Upper House. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, and Leader of the House J P Nadda addressed the House, setting a tone of respect and continuity.

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Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha experienced a turbulent day as opposition members persisted in demanding a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls conducted by the Election Commission of India across several states. Despite frequent disruptions, Speaker Om Birla managed to address at least one question before adjourning the House until noon.

After resuming at 12 noon, the opposition engaged in sloganeering over the SIR and related issues, leading to a chaotic scene in the well of the House. Amid the unrest, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aiming to levy excise duty on tobacco and related products, and the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, proposing a cess on the production of specified goods like pan masala.

At 2 PM, following another adjournment, Sitharaman moved the Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, for consideration and passage. Despite opposition noise, the Bill was passed by voice vote. The Lok Sabha also extended the deadlines for presenting reports on the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill to the session’s latter part.

Earlier in the day, Speaker Om Birla paid tribute to former members of Parliament who recently passed away, including veteran actor Dharmendra, Col. (Retd.) Sona Ram Choudhary, Prof. Vijay Kumar Malhotra, and Ravi Naik. A moment of silence was observed in their memory.

The House also celebrated Indian sports achievements, congratulating the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for their historic victory in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, the Indian Blind Women’s T20 Cricket team for their World Cup win, and the Women’s Kabaddi team for their success in 2025. Members further lauded athletes who won 20 medals at the Deaflympics.

As the Winter Session unfolds, the focus remains on balancing spirited political debate with the passage of key legislation vital to India’s development and governance.