Ready for structured debate: Govt to Oppn

The winter session of Parliament is set to start with a fresh face-off between the Opposition and the government with the former demanding a debate on the ethics committee’s report against Trinamool Congress lawmaker Mahua Moitra and demand that MPs who are facing indefinite suspension be brought back to the House.

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At the customary pre-session meeting of all parties, a number of leaders sought discussion on the role of governors, Israel-Palestine issue, price rise and unemployment. The Opposition cautioned the government against pushing bills without giving sufficient time for Opposition-sponsored debates.

Parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi announced that the all-party meeting was held under defence minister Rajnath Singh’s chairmanship with 30 leaders from 23 parties in attendance.

“There was demand for a short duration and zero hour. We told them that it is their (Opposition’s) responsibility to create a conducive atmosphere for structured debates. Last time, we were ready to discuss the Manipur situation. This will be the last (full) session. All issues can be taken up if the Chair permits. We also want discussions on whatever work we have done, our success and achievements under PM Narendra Modi ji,” Joshi said.