18th Lok Sabha's Inaugural Session: Opposition Prepares for Offensive
The maiden session of the 18th Lok Sabha commences on Monday, June 24, with a revitalized Opposition poised to hold the ruling NDA government accountable on multiple fronts.
The session's agenda includes the swearing-in of newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs), followed by the election of the Lok Sabha Speaker on June 26. President Droupadi Murmu's address to a joint sitting of both Houses on June 27 will cap the ceremonial proceedings.
Buoyed by its increased representation, the Opposition anticipates adopting a pugnacious approach, highlighting issues such as alleged improprieties in the NEET-UG and NET examinations, the relocation of statues within the Parliament complex, and the government's selection of veteran BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab as pro tem Speaker.
Session Commences with Swearing-In
The session will commence with President Murmu administering the oath to BJP's Bhartruhari Mahtab as pro tem Speaker. Mahtab will subsequently invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take his oath as a member of the House, followed by the swearing-in of other newly elected MPs.
Opposition Contests Mahtab's Appointment
The Opposition has denounced Mahtab's appointment, asserting that Congress's Kodikunnil Suresh, an eight-term Lok Sabha MP, was unjustifiably overlooked by the government.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has defended the appointment, citing Mahtab's seven uninterrupted terms as a Lok Sabha member, which he claims qualifies him for the post. However, the Opposition accuses the government of disregarding conventions and Suresh's seniority.
Minister Welcomes New Members, Opposition Responds
Ahead of today's session, Rijiju welcomed the new lawmakers, stating his commitment to assisting them in their roles. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh responded, emphasizing that actions would carry more weight than words.
Opposition Plans Symbolic Protest
The Opposition, particularly MPs from the INDIA bloc, intends to hold a symbolic protest by gathering near Gate No. 2 of the old Parliament building, the former location of Mahatma Gandhi's statue. The statue, along with others, has been relocated to a new area called Prerna Sthal. A senior opposition leader informed PTI news agency that some MPs would carry copies of the Constitution of India and proceed to the Parliament building.
The inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha promises to be eventful, with the Opposition signaling its determination to challenge the government's policies and actions. The session's outcome will shape the political landscape and set the tone for the upcoming parliamentary proceedings.
