As announced by the Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, the Winter Session of India’s Parliament will begin on November 25, 2024, and continue until December 20, 2024. The session, which is significant in the legislative calendar, is expected to address a wide range of issues, from crucial bills to ongoing national and international concerns.
“Hon’ble President, on the recommendation of Government of India, has approved the proposal for summoning of both the Houses of Parliament for the Winter Session, 2024 from 25th November to 20th December, 2024 (subject to exigencies of parliamentary business). On 26th November, 2024 (Constitution Day), 75th Anniversary of the adoption of Constitution, the event would be celebrated in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan” announced Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju on X.
Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024
One of the most anticipated legislative items in the Winter Session is the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The bill seeks to introduce sweeping reforms to managing and regulating Waqf properties in India. Among the key provisions of the proposed legislation are the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collector’s Office, improved representation for Muslim women and non-Muslims in Waqf Boards, and the digitization of Waqf records.
The bill was referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) earlier this year, and discussions are ongoing as the committee seeks input from stakeholders across different states. Barring any unforeseen delays, the JPC is expected to submit its report by November 29, 2024.
However, the amendment has already sparked significant opposition. Critics, particularly from opposition parties, have raised concerns about the bill’s potential impact on religious autonomy and the administration of Waqf properties. These reservations are expected to dominate the debate in Parliament, and it remains to be seen how the government will address the concerns raised by these opposition leaders.
One Nation, One Election
Another major item likely to feature prominently in the Winter Session is the One Nation, One Election proposal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently reiterated the government’s commitment to this reform, which aims to conduct simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament) and state legislative assemblies. According to the Prime Minister, this move would enhance the efficiency of India’s electoral system, save resources, and allow for better governance, also contributing to the country’s long-term goal of achieving a “developed India.”
The opposition, however, has expressed strong reservations about the proposal. The Indian National Congress (INC), in particular, has been vocal in its opposition, arguing that such a significant change requires widespread consultation across all political parties in Parliament. The Congress contends that the government should first take the Parliament into confidence before proceeding with such a reform, which many view as potentially weakening regional voices and undermining the federal structure of India’s democracy.
India-Canada Diplomatic Tensions
The ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada is also expected to be a significant topic of discussion during the session. Relations between the two countries hit a low point in mid-October 2024, following the Canadian government’s statements implicating Indian diplomats in the Hardeep Singh Nijjar murder investigation. In retaliation, India expelled several Canadian diplomats and withdrew its diplomats from Canada, further escalating the diplomatic crisis.
The issue has not only strained bilateral ties but also led to broader discussions about India’s security concerns and the alleged activities of Khalistan separatists operating from Canada. Parliamentarians from various political parties are expected to debate the broader implications of this diplomatic standoff, especially in the context of national security and India’s foreign policy objectives.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
Comments