The monsoon session of Parliament is set to begin on July 20, 2021, and will continue until August 11, according to an official announcement. The session will comprise 19 sittings, with the government planning to introduce several key bills. This session comes amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has prompted strict health protocols for lawmakers and staff.
Key Bills and Agenda
The government has listed several important pieces of legislation for the session, including the Bill to replace the contentious farm laws, though the final agenda is yet to be finalized. Other likely bills include those related to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) amendments. The opposition parties are expected to raise issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic response, vaccination drive, and economic slowdown.
COVID-19 Protocols
In view of the pandemic, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha secretariats have issued strict guidelines. All members of Parliament (MPs) and staff must be fully vaccinated or produce a negative RT-PCR test report. The number of visitors and media personnel allowed inside the Parliament complex will be limited. Sanitization and social distancing measures will be in place throughout the session.
Historical Context and Significance
The monsoon session is crucial as it is the second session of the year and often witnesses intense debates on key policy matters. This year, the session is particularly significant as it will be the first full session after the second wave of COVID-19. The government aims to pass essential legislation and discuss the nation's recovery roadmap.
Opposition's Stance
Opposition parties have demanded a discussion on the handling of the pandemic and the economic crisis. They have also called for the repeal of the three farm laws, which have been a major point of contention. The Congress party has indicated it will raise issues of unemployment and inflation. The government, however, has expressed willingness to debate all issues but has ruled out any compromise on the farm laws.
Logistics and Arrangements
The Parliament building has been equipped with additional medical facilities, including an oxygen plant and a dedicated COVID-19 care center. The session will be held with reduced seating capacity to ensure social distancing. MPs have been advised to avoid unnecessary movement and interactions. The duration of the session has been shortened compared to previous years to minimize health risks.
Expected Outcomes
Political analysts expect a stormy session with the opposition likely to corner the government on various issues. The government, on the other hand, is keen to pass pending bills and showcase its legislative agenda. The session will also see the election of the new Vice President, as the term of the current Vice President, M. Venkaiah Naidu, ends in August. The monsoon session promises to be a critical period for the government's legislative business and political maneuvering.
