Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that the Winter Session of Parliament will take place from December 1 to 19, 2025. The announcement, made via X (formerly Twitter), invited all parties to engage in meaningful discussions aimed at “strengthening democracy and serving the aspirations of the people.”
Traditionally, the Winter Session begins in the third week of November and continues until just before Christmas. However, this year’s schedule—spanning just 19 days—has triggered criticism from opposition parties, who view the delay as an attempt to limit parliamentary scrutiny and debate.
Opposition’s Response: “An Unusually Delayed and Truncated Session”
The announcement immediately drew sharp reactions from opposition leaders. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh labelled the move as “unusually delayed” and “truncated,” questioning the government’s intent.
“What message is being sent to the nation?” he wrote on X. “Clearly, the government has no business to transact, no bills to get passed, and no debate to be allowed.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien accused the government of suffering from what he termed “Parliament-ophobia.” He remarked, “PM Narendra Modi and his team continue to suffer from an acute fear of facing Parliament. This short session sets a dubious record.”
Context: A Year of Limited Parliamentary Business
The criticism stems from a broader pattern noted throughout 2025. The Monsoon Session, which ended on August 21, witnessed limited legislative activity amid frequent disruptions and protests.
While 12 bills were passed in the Lok Sabha and 14 in the Rajya Sabha, much of the session was overshadowed by debates on Operation Sindoor and the Special Intensive Revision exercise in Bihar, both of which led to repeated adjournments.
Observers suggest that the Winter Session, being significantly shorter, may not allow adequate time to discuss pressing national issues or pending legislation.
Historical Comparison: Last Year’s Heated Winter Session
Last year’s Winter Session (2024) had been longer and far more eventful. It featured debates marking the 75th anniversary of the Constitution, a no-confidence motion against then Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and an Opposition-led impeachment notice against an Allahabad High Court judge.
The session concluded with a charged debate over the alleged insult of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, reflecting the politically charged atmosphere that often defines India’s parliamentary proceedings.
Government’s Stance: Focus on “Constructive Debate”
Despite the criticism, Minister Rijiju expressed optimism about the upcoming session. His statement emphasized collaboration and purpose: “We look forward to a constructive and meaningful session that strengthens democracy and serves the aspirations of the people.”
Government insiders suggest that the session will prioritize key economic and administrative bills while reviewing progress made under various national schemes before the fiscal year’s end.
What Lies Ahead
With the session scheduled to begin in early December, all eyes will be on how both Houses navigate political tensions and time constraints. Whether the short session will produce substantial legislative outcomes or dissolve into partisan gridlock remains to be seen.
