The second phase of the Budget Session of Parliament is set to begin on Monday, with the opposition gearing up to corner the government on several contentious issues. Key topics expected to dominate discussions include the ongoing violence in Manipur, the delimitation process, former U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff warning, the three-language policy, and the Waqf Bill.
Opposition’s Strategy: Manipur Violence and Delimitation
The opposition parties are expected to raise questions about the law and order situation in Manipur, where ethnic clashes and violence have persisted. They are likely to demand a detailed statement from the Union Home Minister and push for a debate on the handling of the crisis.
Another significant issue on the agenda is delimitation, which concerns the redrawing of parliamentary and assembly constituencies. The opposition is expected to challenge the government’s approach and its potential political impact, especially in states like Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast.
Donald Trump’s Tariff Threat and Its Impact on India
The opposition may also highlight concerns over Donald Trump’s recent tariff warning, which could affect India’s trade relations with the U.S. If Trump wins the 2024 U.S. Presidential elections, his proposed tariffs could have economic implications for India, impacting exports and industries like IT and manufacturing.
The Three-Language Policy Debate
The government’s proposed implementation of the three-language formula in education has sparked criticism, especially from southern states that oppose the imposition of Hindi. The opposition is expected to debate the implications of this policy on regional languages and cultural identity.
Waqf Bill and Minority Rights
The controversial Waqf Bill is also likely to be a major topic of discussion. The bill, which deals with the management of Waqf properties, has led to concerns about minority rights and religious institutions. The opposition is expected to demand changes to ensure transparency and accountability in Waqf management.
Government’s Response and Legislative Plans
The ruling party is expected to defend its stance on all these issues while pushing forward key economic and welfare legislation. The government may introduce important economic reforms, budgetary allocations, and policy decisions that will shape the second phase of the session.
With Lok Sabha elections approaching in 2025, this session is crucial for both the government and the opposition to present their stand on major national issues. The debates in Parliament will set the tone for the political narrative in the coming months.
