India's Parliament winter session commenced on November 30, 2025, setting the stage for three weeks of intense political engagement in New Delhi. With over 700 Members of Parliament expected to participate, the session promises heated debates on critical national issues ranging from financial approvals to electoral reforms.
Key Agenda Items and Political Standoff
The government seeks parliamentary approval for additional funds and at least 10 legislative bills during this session. However, the opposition has different priorities, demanding debates on several pressing matters.
Opposition parties have specifically sought discussions on the Electoral Commission's Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program, which is creating new electoral rolls in several states. Additional opposition demands include debates on unemployment and flood relief measures.
Adding to the political dynamics, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has suggested that Vande Mataram should be discussed, indicating the diverse range of topics that might surface during the session.
Rajya Sabha Takes Center Stage
The opening day focuses primarily on the Upper House, where newly elected Vice President CP Radhakrishnan presides over the Rajya Sabha as its chairman for the first time. The proceedings begin with ceremonial felicitations, starting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating the Vice President, followed by Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and leaders from other political parties.
All eyes will be on VP Radhakrishnan's response, which is expected to set the tone for his approach to managing debates in the House. His leadership style will be crucial given the pending decision on impeachment proceedings against two High Court judges that awaits parliamentary attention.
Functionality Concerns and Political Temperature
Despite the packed agenda, the fundamental question remains whether Parliament will function smoothly. The session begins amid concerns about parliamentary productivity, with the government's legislative agenda facing potential disruption from opposition-led debates.
The political atmosphere promises to be heated, contrasting sharply with Delhi's cold winter weather. While the external air quality remains a concern, stakeholders hope the environment inside Parliament will be less toxic than the pollution outside, allowing for productive democratic discourse.
With significant pending decisions and multiple contentious issues on the table, this winter session could determine the trajectory of parliamentary proceedings for the remainder of the political year.
