The Monsoon session of Parliament has started amidst protests regarding the situation in Manipur. The Opposition is demanding a statement from the Indian Prime Minister. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi announced that 31 bills will be discussed during the session. These include the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, and the Bill to replace the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023.
The Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, is an important part of the government’s technology regulations framework. It had been approved by the Union Cabinet recently after undergoing consultations and scrutiny by a Joint Parliamentary Committee. The new bill has been formulated after further consultations. The Bill to replace the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, aims to establish the National Capital Civil Services Authority, which will have significant roles in officials’ transfers, postings, and disciplinary matters.
While the government wants to focus on its legislative agenda, the Opposition parties want to address various issues such as Manipur violence, railway safety, unemployment, inflation, India-China border standoff, and trade imbalance between the two countries.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has requested the Opposition’s support for smooth parliamentary proceedings during the Monsoon Session. He assured that the government is ready to discuss all matters. Some parties plan to move an adjournment motion on the first day of the session, specifically addressing Manipur violence and other issues. The Opposition insists that the discussion should take place in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Congress party also intends to raise the issue of Manipur violence during the session.
