After a Budget Session that did not witness consensus on many issues in both houses, the much-waited Winter Session of the Parliament begins today.
While the first two days may not see disruptions, even though it may see heated debate, the focus will be on a special discussion on Babasaheb Ambedkar and the Constitution. From next week, it could well head for a washout again unless there’s a breakthrough on the Goods and Services Tax Bill.
Here are the live updates:
1:30 pm: People who never had faith in the Constitution, nor had they participated in its drafting, are now swearing by it: Sonia.
12: 50 pm: What we have been witnessing from past few months is completely against the values that have been ensured by our Constitution: Sonia Gandhi
12: 37 pm: Indian Constitution is a result of decades of struggle. It took three years to frame it: Sonia Gandhi in Lok Sabha
12: 20 pm: "Our Govt introduced Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. We have sent a message that there are no menial jobs"
12: 05 pm: "Dr. Ambedkar didn't find it necessary to insert 'Socialist' and 'Secular' words in Preamble because he felt it's already in our basic nature"
11: 50 am: 'Despite insults, Dr. Ambedkar never said he will leave India,' says Rajnath Singh.
11: 45 am: We will express our commitment towards the Indian Constitution today: Rajnath Singh
10: 50 am: The debate on 'Commitment to Constitution' will now begin in Rajya Sabha on Friday and continue on Monday.
10: 30 am: Rajya Sabha to be adjourned for the day due to demise of sitting member Sh. Khekiho Zhimomi, Nagaland People's Front.
Top developments:
- Before the onset of the Winter Session of the Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the Opposition to let the House function smoothly.
- Stating that debate and dialogue are soul of the Parliament, Mr. Modi said that the Constitution is a ray of hope which in turn stands for: H for Harmony, O-opportunity, P-people's participation, E-equality.
- "Hope all MPs live up to the expectations of the people," he said.
