House debates on 'Vande Mataram,' poll reform on Monday, Tuesday
What's the story
The Lok Sabha will hold a debate on the 150th anniversary of the national song "Vande Mataram" on Monday, while a discussion on electoral reforms is scheduled for Tuesday. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal will reply to the poll reform debate on Wednesday. This was announced by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju after an all-party meeting and Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
Debate details
Prime Minister to lead 'Vande Mataram' debate
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the debate on "Vande Mataram." Each debate will have 10 hours allocated, with possible extensions if needed. The Lok Sabha was adjourned early for two days due to opposition protests over SIR in 12 states and Union Territories. Similar scenes were also witnessed in the Lok Sabha as opposition leaders staged a walkout over their demands for a discussion on the SIR. Subsequently, the Upper House was adjourned for the day.
Assurance sought
Both Houses adjourned early
Following repeated disruptions, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla summoned a meeting of party leaders to break the deadlock. After the floor leaders' meeting, it was decided that the House will run smoothly from Wednesday, without any disruption. "During the All Party Meeting Chaired...it has been decided to hold discussion in Lok Sabha on 150th Anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' from 12 Noon on Monday 8th December and discussion on Election Reforms from 12 noon on Tuesday 9th December," Rijiju said.
Debate order
Government's focus on Vande Mataram debate 1st
The government was keen to have the "Vande Mataram" debate before discussing electoral reforms or SIR. However, opposition leaders expressed frustration over the lack of clarity on when discussions would be taken up. TMC leader Derek O'Brien demanded a clear announcement from the government regarding timelines for these discussions. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also highlighted a trust deficit due to perceived government behavior toward opposition demands.