Parliament Budget Session Today Stage Set for Heated Debates on Waqf Bill, US Tariffs, and More
The second leg of Parliament’s Budget Session begins today, promising intense debates as the Opposition gears up to challenge the government on multiple fronts, including the Waqf Amendment Bill, US tariff threats, and alleged electoral roll manipulation. The session, running until April 4, will also see the government push for key budgetary approvals. Tensions are high with issues like delimitation and the three-language policy adding fuel to the fire.
The contentious Waqf Amendment Bill, recently cleared by the Union Cabinet, is set for a stormy discussion. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said, “The bill will address many issues of the Muslim community.” NDA allies JD(U) and TDP have pledged support, while the INDIA bloc plans a united opposition.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will table the Manipur Budget today, following the state’s shift to President’s Rule on February 13. Home Minister Amit Shah will seek Parliament’s nod for this proclamation. The government aims to pass the Appropriation and Finance Bills to complete the budgetary process.
Fresh violence in Manipur, amid the Centre’s free movement directive, will be raised by Opposition MPs. The state has faced ethnic clashes since May 2023. The Congress and INDIA allies are set to question the government’s handling of the crisis.
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The Opposition, led by Congress, will address US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats and claims of India agreeing to cut duties. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh asked, “Are Indian farmers and manufacturers being compromised?” The issue of deported Indian immigrants will also be highlighted.
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has rallied southern states against population-based delimitation, fearing a loss of Lok Sabha seats. He urged extending the 1971 Census framework for 30 more years. The DMK will raise this alongside alleged “Hindi imposition” via the three-language policy.
The TMC, backed by INDIA allies, will spotlight duplicate EPIC numbers, accusing the BJP of voter list manipulation. The Election Commission clarified that while some EPIC numbers match, other voter details differ. The issue remains a flashpoint ahead of polls.
The Congress’s strategy meeting today will finalise its session plans, with demands for discussions on key ministries. The TMC and DMK will push their agendas, setting the stage for a contentious month. Updates on legislative outcomes and Opposition moves are expected as the session unfolds.
