New Delhi, Dec 1 (UNI) The Winter Session of Parliament began today with a mix of ceremonial warmth and heightened political tension, as the Rajya Sabha formally welcomed Vice President C P Radhakrishnan as its new Chairman, while the Lok Sabha grappled with persistent opposition disruptions that led to multiple adjournments.
In the Upper House, dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, and Leader of the House J P Nadda among other floor leaders of different parties honored the new Chairman with speeches that underscored the importance of parliamentary decorum and continuity.
PM Modi highlighted Radhakrishnan’s role in steering the Rajya Sabha through a critical phase, calling for a collaborative spirit among members.
Contrasting the calm in the Rajya Sabha, the Lok Sabha witnessed a day of intense unrest. Opposition members, led by Congress and other parties, vociferously demanded a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls—a contentious process that has drawn widespread criticism over alleged disenfranchisement and administrative lapses.
Speaker Om Birla’s efforts to conduct proceedings were repeatedly interrupted, though he managed to raise and address at least one question before adjourning the House until noon.
After the House reconvened, the opposition continued protests, delaying the agenda. Despite the disruptions, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced three significant money bills, signaling the government’s intent to push forward with key reforms. These included: The Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, aimed at updating GST provisions in the northeastern state; The Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, proposing a new cess to support health and security initiatives and the The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, designed to replace the GST compensation cess on tobacco products.
The Finance Minister also tabled the first batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025-26.
Following these introductions, the Lok Sabha was adjourned for till 2 pm. However, the House was adjourned for the day, to resume on Tuesday, December 2, as the Oppostion refused to relent to appeals from the Chair to restore order.
The day’s unfolding events highlight the delicate balancing act that the Parliament must perform—navigating vibrant democratic discourse and political contention while advancing critical legislative reforms. As the Winter Session progresses amidst a charged atmosphere, all eyes remain on lawmakers whether they rise above partisan divides and deliver on governance promises essential for the nation’s growth and stability. UNI SKA AAB