The 18th Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament, is gearing up for its first session on Monday. This event follows the general elections held between April and June, marking a significant moment in Indian democracy. Let’s dive into the key events and what we can expect during this inaugural session.
Oath-Taking Ceremony
The session will commence with an oath-taking ceremony at 11 am. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers will take their oaths first. Following them, newly-elected Members of Parliament (MPs) from various states will take their oaths in alphabetical order. Representatives from Assam will begin, with West Bengal’s MPs concluding the ceremony.
Pro Tem Speaker Controversy
The session is already mired in controversy due to the appointment of the pro tem speaker. Bhartruhari Mahtab, a seven-term BJP leader, has been appointed to this role, a decision that has not gone down well with the Opposition. Congress member Kodikunnil Suresh was overlooked for the position, leading to heated debates. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju defended Mahtab’s appointment, highlighting his uninterrupted service as a Lok Sabha member.
18th Lok Sabha’s Inaugural Session: Key Dates and Events
Several key events are scheduled during the inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha. Here are the important dates to keep an eye on:
June 24: Oath Administration
On June 24, President Droupadi Murmu will administer the oath to Bhartruhari Mahtab at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Mahtab will then convene the Lok Sabha at 11 am. The session will begin with a moment of silence observed by the members.
June 25: Oath-Taking Continues
The oath-taking ceremony will continue on June 25, with an additional 264 newly-elected MPs taking their oaths. This process ensures that all members are formally inducted before the parliamentary proceedings commence in full swing.
June 26: Election of Lok Sabha Speaker
The election of the Lok Sabha Speaker is slated for June 26. This election is crucial as the Speaker plays a pivotal role in the functioning of the House, ensuring orderly conduct and fair discussions.
June 27: Presidential Address
On June 27, President Murmu will address a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. This address is significant as it outlines the government’s agenda and sets the tone for the legislative session.
The Political Landscape
The 18th Lok Sabha presents a diverse and dynamic political landscape. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) holds a majority with 293 seats, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has 240 seats—just shy of the 272-majority mark. The Opposition, known as the INDIA bloc, commands 234 seats, with Congress contributing 99.
Major Players and Dynamics
The NDA’s majority, though solid, is not overwhelming, suggesting that they will need to engage in strategic alliances and negotiations to pass significant legislation. The BJP, as the leading party, will play a central role in these discussions.
On the other hand, the Opposition INDIA bloc, with its substantial 234 seats, is poised to challenge the ruling coalition on various fronts. The Congress party, with 99 seats, remains a significant player in the opposition camp. This dynamic is expected to lead to intense debates and robust discussions on the floor of the House.
Expectations and Predictions
As the 18th Lok Sabha session unfolds, several key issues are expected to dominate the agenda. Here are some areas to watch:
Legislative Agenda
The government is likely to push forward with its legislative agenda, focusing on economic reforms, social policies, and infrastructure development. Key bills related to these areas might be introduced and debated.
Economic Policies
With India’s economy recovering from the impacts of the pandemic, economic policies and reforms will be a major focus. The government is expected to present measures to boost economic growth, attract investments, and create job opportunities.
Social Issues
Social policies, including healthcare, education, and welfare schemes, will also be in the spotlight.
The NEET-UG examination leak issue is under scrutiny right now due to allegations of paper leaks and suspicions of result tampering. The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting NEET, faces mounting pressure from parents, teachers, and opposition parties.
The Congress, as the principal Opposition party, is gearing up to demand the cancellation of NEET 2024 in the 18th Lok Sabha.
Discussions on improving healthcare infrastructure and enhancing social welfare programs are anticipated too.
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure development remains a priority for the government. Projects related to transportation, energy, and urban development will be crucial topics of discussion.
Challenges and Controversies
While the session promises productive discussions, it is also likely to witness challenges and controversies. The pro-tem speaker controversy is just one example. Other contentious issues might include debates over government policies, opposition strategies, and potential protests or walkouts.
Conclusion
The inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha is a significant event in India’s democratic process. It sets the stage for legislative activities, debates, and decisions that will shape the country’s future. As the session progresses, we can expect lively discussions, strategic negotiations, and important legislative actions. Stay tuned for updates as the 18th Lok Sabha embarks on its journey, navigating the complex and dynamic landscape of Indian politics.
