The Indian government has called an all-party meeting on July 18, 2026, to build consensus ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which is set to begin on July 20. The meeting, to be chaired by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, comes amid heightened political tensions over several contentious issues that could lead to a major showdown between the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc.
Key Issues Likely to Dominate
The opposition parties are expected to raise the volatile situation in Manipur, where ethnic violence has claimed over 150 lives since May 2023. The Congress and other opposition parties have demanded a detailed statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in both Houses and have threatened to disrupt proceedings if their demand is not met. The government, however, has maintained that the situation is under control and has accused the opposition of politicizing the issue.
Another flashpoint is the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which seeks to replace an ordinance that gave the Delhi Lieutenant Governor control over services in the national capital. The opposition, particularly the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has vehemently opposed the bill, calling it an attack on the federal structure. The bill is listed for passage in the Rajya Sabha, where the NDA lacks a majority, making it a high-stakes battle.
No-Confidence Motion and Other Contentious Matters
The opposition INDIA bloc is also planning to move a no-confidence motion against the government over its handling of the Manipur crisis and other issues. While the motion is unlikely to succeed due to the NDA's majority in the Lok Sabha, it will force a debate and a vote, potentially embarrassing the government. The government, on its part, is prepared to counter the motion by highlighting its development agenda and accusing the opposition of obstructionism.
Other issues that could spark debate include the rising prices of essential commodities, unemployment, and the alleged misuse of central agencies against opposition leaders. The government is expected to push for the passage of key legislative business, including the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill and the Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill.
Government's Strategy and Opposition's Unity
According to sources, the government will use the all-party meeting to appeal for smooth functioning of Parliament and to seek cooperation on legislative business. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said, "We hope all parties will participate constructively and ensure that the session runs without disruption." However, the opposition has signaled that it will not back down on its demands. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh stated, "The government must address the serious issues facing the country. We will raise the Manipur violence, price rise, and unemployment in Parliament."
The Monsoon Session is scheduled to conclude on August 11, with 19 sittings planned. The government has listed 23 bills for passage, including the Delhi services bill and the data protection bill. The opposition has also demanded a discussion on the China-India border standoff and the situation in Myanmar.
