Rajasthan Assembly Budget Session Set to Commence Amid Political Tensions
The Budget session of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, marking the fifth session under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. This session is anticipated to be politically charged, with significant legislative and financial matters on the agenda.
Key Agenda Items and Schedule
The session will open with the governor's address, which will outline the government's policy priorities and developmental agenda for the upcoming year. Following this, discussions on the address are expected to set the stage for intense debates between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party.
The government is likely to present its reply to the debate on the governor's address on February 3. After this response, Assembly proceedings may be adjourned for approximately one week or until February 11, when the state Budget is scheduled for presentation.
According to Assembly sources, the Budget session may be relatively short due to the impending panchayat and municipal elections scheduled for March. "In view of the election timeline, the government is preparing to pass the Budget at the earliest. The session is likely to conclude by the end of February or be deferred to May," a source revealed. This compressed schedule is expected to intensify proceedings, with major political and governance issues dominating debates within a limited timeframe.
Legislative Focus: Bills and Controversies
The session is expected to feature the tabling of three significant Bills, with the proposed Rajasthan Prohibition of Transfer of Immovable Property and Provision for Protection of Tenants from Eviction from Premises in Disturbed Areas Bill, 2026 being among the most contentious. The government maintains that this Bill aims to regulate property transactions in sensitive areas and prevent distress sales. However, the opposition Congress has expressed serious concerns regarding its intent and potential impact on Rajasthan's social fabric and longstanding tradition of communal harmony.
Heated exchanges are also anticipated over the alleged irregularities in OMR sheets from recent recruitment examinations, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the scheduling of panchayat and municipal elections. These issues are likely to fuel political confrontations during the session.
Budget Presentation and Procedural Details
While February 11 is earmarked for the Budget presentation, the final decision on the exact date will be determined by the business advisory committee (BAC) on Wednesday. "Preparations for the Budget are underway, and the government is ready to place its development roadmap before the House," a senior official stated.
The session's dynamics are poised to reflect the broader political landscape in Rajasthan, with both the ruling and opposition parties gearing up for robust discussions on critical state matters.
