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Parliament Monsoon Session disrupted amid voter rights debate

by theparliamentnews.com
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Parliament

Bihar’s Special Intensive Revision Sparks Parliament Protests

Day 2 of Monsoon Session Adjourned Within Minutes Amid Uproar

The Indian Parliament’s Monsoon Session on July 22, 2025, was disrupted within minutes of commencement, as Opposition parties vocally protested against Bihar’s ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Accusing the exercise of being a tool for mass voter disenfranchisement, leaders stormed the well of the House, effectively halting proceedings for the day.

Opposition’s Stand: Why the Protest?

Congress MP Manickam Tagore led the charge in the Lok Sabha by submitting a notice on the issue. However, before any meaningful discussion could take place, the House was adjourned. Opposition members carried placards and gathered near the Makar Dwar, symbolically demonstrating their displeasure.

On the Rajya Sabha front, the situation mirrored that of the lower house. Members attempted to debate the SIR, but Deputy Chairman Harivansh rejected 12 notices filed under Rule 267, which calls for suspending all business to discuss a pressing issue.

The SIR Controversy in Bihar

The Special Intensive Revision exercise, initiated to update Bihar’s electoral rolls, has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of the Opposition in Bihar, has emerged as a central figure in the resistance, alleging that the move could disenfranchise large sections of voters. On July 20, he released letters sent to 35 political leaders across India, appealing for collective opposition to the SIR process.

Many Opposition leaders argue that the exercise lacks transparency, proper oversight, and disproportionately targets marginalized communities.

Parliamentary Business Disrupted

Despite the planned discussions around critical legislative matters—such as The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha and The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha—no deliberation could proceed. The day’s business came to a halt as political protests overshadowed legislative responsibilities.

Larger Implications: Right to Vote and Democratic Integrity

The protests raise deeper questions about the sanctity of democratic rights in India. While the right to vote is a statutory right under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the SIR controversy brings to light how administrative processes can influence voter access. The Opposition insists that this revision could disenfranchise thousands, especially in socio-economically vulnerable sections.

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Parliament adjourned as Opposition demands immediate debate on Operation Sindoor.

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com
Parliament Monsoon Session

The monsoon session of Parliament on July 21, 2025, unfolded with high drama, repeated adjournments, and rising political tensions as the Opposition demanded an official statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the controversial Operation Sindoor.

Lok Sabha Adjourned Twice Over Opposition Protests

The Lok Sabha faced early disruptions, leading to an initial adjournment just after it convened. Opposition leaders raised slogans and insisted on a response from the Prime Minister about the recent events tied to Operation Sindoor and the tragic incident in Pahalgam.

After a brief resumption, the House was again forced into adjournment due to the relentless uproar. During the short interval of proceedings, BJP MP Baijayant Panda presented the Select Committee’s report on the Income Tax Bill, 2025. The proposed legislation includes 285 amendments aimed at overhauling the outdated tax framework.

Tributes were paid in the House for multiple recent incidents, including the devastating Air India AI171 crash in Ahmedabad. However, calm was short-lived, as tensions quickly escalated again.

Speaker Om Birla reiterated that every issue, including the contentious Operation Sindoor, would be taken up for debate following due parliamentary procedure.

Rajya Sabha Walkout Over Operation Sindoor

The Rajya Sabha didn’t fare much better. The session was stalled early on after Opposition members began protesting loudly, demanding answers and initiating a walkout over Operation Sindoor.

When proceedings resumed, Deputy Chairman Harivansh made a firm appeal to allow the Question Hour to continue. But the protests only grew louder, eventually causing another halt. Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar stressed that the government was open to a full and detailed discussion, but that it must be done through proper channels.

Government’s Stance: Ready for Dialogue, But Under Rules

In a pre-session all-party meeting, the government emphasized its readiness to engage on all major concerns, including Operation Sindoor. At the same time, it underscored the importance of maintaining order and adhering to the framework that governs debates in Parliament.

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Parliament Monsoon Session 2025: Eight New Bills to Be Introduced

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com
Parliament Monsoon Session

Parliament Monsoon Session 2025: Eight New Bills on the Agenda

The Monsoon Session of Parliament, commencing July 21 and running through August 21 (with a break for Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day), will see the government introduce eight new Bills designed to strengthen governance across diverse domains.

Key Bills to Watch

  • National Sports Governance Bill: Aims to overhaul the administration of sports bodies and promote transparency.
  • Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation & Maintenance) Bill: Focuses on safeguarding India’s unique geological and palaeontological heritage.
  • Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Amendment Bill: Seeks to modernize mining regulation and streamline licensing.
  • National Anti‑Doping (Amendment) Bill: Introduces stricter compliance and testing protocols in sports.
  • Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill: Aligns state GST structure for Manipur with central norms.
  • Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill: Expands the ambit of ‘good faith’ protections and decriminalisation measures.
  • Indian Institute of Management (Amendment) Bill: Enhances autonomy and governance for IIMs.
  • Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill: Includes updates on income tax, corporate tax, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Additionally, the Income Tax Bill, 2025, previously introduced in February and reviewed by a Select Committee, is scheduled for presentation in the Lok Sabha on July 21.

Other Key Business

  • Seeking approval to extend President’s Rule in Manipur, along with the Demand for Grants for the state.
  • Pending Lok Sabha bills include the Readjustment of ST Representation in Goa, the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, and the Indian Ports Bill, 2025.

Anticipated Parliamentary Flashpoints

  • Electoral rolls revision in Bihar via Special Intensive Revision (SIR) by the Election Commission.
  • Opposition queries linked to Operation Sindoor and Trump’s claims of preventing nuclear war between India and Pakistan could lead to sharp political exchanges.

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Monsoon Session of Parliament Set for July 21 to August 12

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com
India Parliament

The Union government has announced that the Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from July 21 to August 12, 2025. The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs has forwarded its recommendation to President Droupadi Murmu for formal summoning. This announcement comes just a day after the Opposition mounted pressure for a special session to discuss the recent developments in Operation Sindoor.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated, “Every session is a special session for us,” emphasizing that under parliamentary rules, all important matters can be taken up during regular sessions.

Outreach Begins on Justice Varma’s Impeachment Motion

Alongside the session announcement, the Centre has initiated dialogue with Opposition parties to build a “unified response” in support of an impeachment motion against Justice Yashwant Varma, a High Court judge accused of corruption.

Mr. Rijiju confirmed having already held talks with leaders from the Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and the Samajwadi Party (SP). “Most of the outreach was positive,” he noted, adding that parties had asked for a day or two to consult internally before committing to a position.

“The government’s effort is to get all parties to take a unified view on an issue pertaining to corruption in the judiciary,” the minister added.

Legal Debate Over Impeachment Procedure

Government sources clarified that, constitutionally, once an impeachment motion is admitted in either House, a committee of inquiry—comprising a Supreme Court judge, a High Court Chief Justice, and an eminent jurist—must be formed. This committee is to submit its report within three months.

However, there are two legal interpretations currently under discussion:

  • One view asserts that a fresh committee is unnecessary, as a Supreme Court-mandated panel has already examined the matter.
  • The other contends that the presiding officer of the concerned House retains the discretion to constitute the committee anew.

Comparison with Justice Shekhar Yadav Case Rejected

When questioned about the status of an earlier impeachment motion—sponsored by the Opposition—against Justice Shekhar Yadav, government sources maintained that the two cases are not equivalent. While the Justice Yadav case revolved around judicial remarks, the Varma case, they claim, involves allegations of corruption, necessitating a distinct approach.

Opposition Criticizes Early Session Announcement

Despite participating in initial outreach discussions, Opposition parties have sharply criticized the early announcement of the Monsoon Session dates—47 days in advance—claiming it is a tactic to dodge calls for a special session on Operation Sindoor.

“Normally the dates for a Parliament session are announced a few days in advance. Never have they been declared this early,” Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh wrote on social media platform X.

Mr. Ramesh outlined a list of topics the Opposition wishes to discuss, including:

  • Alleged politicisation of Operation Sindoor
  • Revelations by the Chief of Defence Staff in Singapore
  • Regional tensions involving Pakistan and China
  • Foreign policy concerns and claims of Trump-led mediation

TMC Terms Delay as ‘Parliamentophobia’

TMC Parliamentary Party leader Derek O’Brien labeled the government’s move as “parliamentophobia,” claiming the long lead time reveals a reluctance to face scrutiny. “Parliamentophobia (noun): My word for the acute condition of a government who have a morbid fear of facing Parliament,” he wrote on X.

Speaking later to reporters, Mr. O’Brien recalled that in the past 11 years, the government had frequently called sessions with only 2–3 weeks’ notice and this is the first instance of a month-and-a-half long gap between the announcement and session start.

Conclusion

As Parliament gears up for its Monsoon Session from July 21 to August 12, political dynamics are already in motion. While the Centre seeks bipartisan support for Justice Varma’s impeachment motion, the Opposition is rallying to foreground Operation Sindoor and foreign policy concerns. Whether this session becomes a battleground or a consensus-building forum remains to be seen.

Stay with The Parliament News for continuous updates on this evolving story.

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BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Lok Sabha Clears Landmark Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025: A New Era of Border Security and Economic Growth

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

India is set to undergo a significant transformation in its immigration framework as the Lok Sabha passed the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, aiming to modernize and consolidate the country’s immigration laws. The bill, introduced by Junior Home Minister Nityanand Rai on behalf of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeks to tackle illegal immigration, monitor the movement of foreigners, and bolster national security while ensuring a welcoming environment for legal immigrants contributing to India’s development.

A Bold Step Towards National Security and Immigration Reform

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that while India remains open to those who contribute to its progress, strict action will be taken against those entering the country with malicious intent. He specifically mentioned concerns over illegal immigrants, including Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators, who, according to him, pose security risks.

“India welcomes those who come here to help in development, but those who come to create trouble will face strong action. This bill will also help in identifying those who come here with bad intentions,” he stated.

The three-hour-long debate culminated in the Lok Sabha clearing the bill, marking a decisive step toward comprehensive immigration control.

A Unified Legal Framework for Immigration

Currently, India’s immigration and foreigner-related matters are governed by four separate laws:

  • Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
  • Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
  • Foreigners Act, 1946
  • Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000

The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 will replace these outdated laws with a simplified, harmonized, and more effective legal structure. The objective is to streamline immigration policies, ensure close monitoring of foreigners, and enable better enforcement mechanisms.

Key Features of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025

  1. Tracking and Monitoring of Foreign Nationals
    • The bill introduces strict oversight of all foreigners entering India.
    • It enables authorities to track overstayers and take necessary action.
  2. Stronger National Security Measures
    • The law will act as a shield against infiltrators, drug cartels, arms smugglers, and economic saboteurs.
    • It allows the government to regulate places frequently visited by foreigners and impose restrictions where necessary.
  3. Balancing Security with Economic and Tourism Growth
    • The bill acknowledges the contribution of legal immigrants and aims to create a streamlined process for those coming to India for work, investment, and tourism.
    • It ensures a clear distinction between illegal infiltrators and genuine visitors.
  4. Not Connected to Citizenship Laws
    • The bill strictly deals with immigration and foreigner regulation, and is not linked to granting citizenship.

Why This Bill Matters

Amit Shah highlighted the necessity of knowing the purpose and duration of every foreigner’s stay in India to safeguard the country’s security and economic interests.

“Immigration is not an isolated subject but is linked to various issues. The bill ensures close monitoring of everyone visiting India, why they visit, and how long they stay. It is absolutely necessary to know these details,” he stated.

The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 thus marks a critical shift towards a modernized, secure, and structured immigration policy. By simplifying laws, enhancing tracking mechanisms, and ensuring stringent enforcement, India is taking a firm stance on illegal immigration while fostering an environment conducive to growth, investment, and global collaboration.

As the bill moves toward becoming law, it is set to reshape India’s immigration landscape for years to come.

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Rajya Sabha Greenlights Disaster Management Bill 2024 Amid Heated Debate

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a crucial move to enhance the country’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities, the Rajya Sabha passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 on Tuesday through a voice vote. This amendment seeks to refine the Disaster Management Act of 2005, addressing challenges faced by states in implementing disaster mitigation measures.

Key Highlights of the Bill

The amendment focuses on defining and streamlining the roles and responsibilities of various agencies involved in disaster management, ensuring a coordinated response at both national and state levels. According to the government, the changes have been introduced based on practical difficulties highlighted by states and their recommendations to improve the system.

While several opposition members proposed amendments, the House rejected them, solidifying the government’s stance on the necessity of these changes. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the revised framework would empower states to handle disasters more efficiently and strengthen their disaster response mechanisms.

Debate Over Government’s Disaster Response

The discussion saw intense debates, particularly regarding the government’s handling of disasters in states like Kerala’s Wayanad. Several opposition leaders accused the Centre of neglecting the region’s crisis, alleging that the government’s response lacked urgency and empathy.

However, Amit Shah strongly refuted these claims, asserting that the Centre has been actively supporting disaster-hit regions. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to disaster relief efforts, stating that the amendments will ensure better coordination, funding, and timely intervention in the wake of natural calamities.

Why This Amendment Matters

Disasters—whether floods, cyclones, earthquakes, or man-made crises—pose a significant threat to lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. The updated Disaster Management Bill aims to:

✅ Clarify roles of various agencies to avoid delays in response.
✅ Ensure synergy between national and state disaster management authorities.
✅ Improve coordination in deploying relief and rescue teams.
✅ Address state-level concerns to make disaster response more effective.

A Step Toward a Resilient India

With climate change intensifying the frequency and severity of disasters, India’s approach to disaster management needs to be dynamic and proactive. The passage of the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 marks a significant step in ensuring a structured, well-coordinated, and robust disaster response mechanism across the country.

As the Bill now moves forward, all eyes will be on its implementation at the state level and how it enhances India’s ability to tackle disasters effectively in the coming years.

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Strategic Shift: India Urged to Formalize a Long-Term Foreign Policy Vision

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As India cements its position on the global stage, a Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs has put forth a significant recommendation—the formulation of a comprehensive foreign policy strategy that is uniquely tailored to India’s geopolitical landscape, economic clout, and evolving global relationships.

This proposal, outlined in the Fifth Report of the Committee on External Affairs (2024-25) on Demands for Grants (2025-26), underscores the need for a structured, long-term vision that aligns with India’s expanding influence. Chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, the panel emphasizes that while India’s diplomatic principles remain strong, a formalized grand strategy would enhance clarity, coherence, and global impact.

Why Does India Need a Grand Foreign Policy Strategy?

In an era where major powers such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Russia have formalized national foreign policy strategies, India stands at a crossroads. The committee argues that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) should take the logical next step by drafting a comprehensive policy document that defines India’s long-term diplomatic objectives, principles, and roadmap.

The report highlights that while the MEA regularly assesses and refines India’s diplomatic stance, it currently lacks a single overarching strategy document. Instead, India’s foreign policy has been guided by longstanding principles, which include:
✔ Safeguarding sovereignty and security
✔ Advancing national interests
✔ Supporting domestic economic transformation
✔ Ensuring regional and global stability
✔ Strengthening India’s influence in international forums

While these principles have enabled India’s diplomatic successes, the committee insists that a structured grand strategy would provide a sharper focus and clearer direction in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

The Road Ahead: Steps Towards a Defined Foreign Policy Vision

The committee has urged the MEA to engage with diplomats, experts, and policymakers to explore the feasibility and scope of such a strategy. Recognizing the importance of structured diplomacy, the report references countries like Australia, Germany, Finland, New Zealand, Spain, Russia, Turkiye, the US, and the UK, all of which have publicly released strategic foreign policy documents.

The committee calls for the MEA to expedite discussions and report back on the progress of this initiative. Such a document, if formalized, would not only strengthen India’s diplomatic positioning but also enhance predictability, consistency, and credibility in global affairs.

India’s Foreign Policy: Balancing Pragmatism with Vision

The MEA, in response to the committee’s recommendations, maintains that India’s foreign policy remains pragmatic and outcome-oriented. It has successfully:
🔹 Revitalized traditional diplomatic ties
🔹 Expanded strategic and economic partnerships
🔹 Strengthened engagement with the global Indian diaspora
🔹 Adapted to evolving international dynamics

However, the fast-changing global landscape necessitates a more structured and forward-looking approach. With India’s growing economic influence, evolving security challenges, and increasing leadership role in multilateral forums, a comprehensive strategy could serve as a guiding framework for long-term global engagement.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for India’s Global Diplomacy

As India strides toward becoming a major geopolitical force, clarity and strategic depth in foreign policy formulation are more important than ever. The parliamentary panel’s recommendations signal a crucial turning point, pushing for a well-defined, structured, and future-ready approach to diplomacy.

If implemented, such a grand strategy would reinforce India’s position as a responsible global power, ensuring that its foreign policy remains adaptable, influential, and firmly rooted in national interests.

With the MEA now at the center of this critical discussion, the coming months could shape the future of India’s diplomatic trajectory in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world.

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Tax Made Simple: India Introduces Comprehensive Income Tax Bill 2025

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

India is on the verge of a historic tax reform as the government prepares to introduce the Income Tax Bill 2025, a streamlined and modernized framework set to replace the Income Tax Act, 1961. The new bill, spanning 622 pages with 536 sections and 23 chapters, aims to simplify the tax structure, enhance digital governance, and reduce bureaucratic delays. Expected to be tabled in Parliament on February 13, 2025, this legislation marks a significant shift in India’s tax administration.

Key Changes: A Move Towards Clarity and Efficiency

One of the most notable shifts in the proposed bill is the elimination of the ‘previous year’ and ‘assessment year’ concepts, replacing them with a straightforward ‘tax year’ system. Under the current law, income earned in one financial year is taxed in the subsequent assessment year, leading to unnecessary complexities. The new framework aims to remove this ambiguity, making tax compliance easier for individuals and businesses alike.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) with greater autonomy. Unlike the existing system where the Income Tax Department had to seek parliamentary approval for procedural changes, Clause 533 of the new bill grants the CBDT the authority to introduce tax administration rules, compliance measures, and digital tax monitoring systems independently. This change is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays and improve efficiency.

A More Structured and Digital-Friendly Approach

Compared to the current Income Tax Act, 1961, which has 298 sections, the new bill expands to 536 sections while reducing the number of pages to 622, nearly half the size of the existing bulky Act that accumulated amendments over the last six decades. This increase in sections is not an addition of complexity but rather a structuring mechanism aimed at incorporating modern compliance mechanisms and digital governance.

Additionally, the bill introduces clearer tax treatment for stock options (ESOPs) to minimize disputes and incorporates judicial pronouncements from the last 60 years to provide more clarity on various tax matters.

Public Consultation and Expert Oversight

The drafting of the Income Tax Bill 2025 has been an inclusive process, with the Income Tax Department receiving over 6,500 suggestions from stakeholders. Public inputs were sought under four key categories:

  • Simplification of language
  • Litigation reduction
  • Compliance ease
  • Removal of redundant provisions

To ensure a thorough review, the CBDT set up 22 specialized sub-committees to analyze various aspects of the old Income Tax Act. This collaborative approach aims to create a concise, clear, and litigation-free tax framework that offers greater certainty to taxpayers.

What’s Next?

Once introduced in Parliament, the bill is likely to be sent to a parliamentary standing committee for further scrutiny. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had first proposed this comprehensive tax reform in the July 2024 Budget, and its formal introduction in the ongoing parliamentary session aligns with the government’s vision of a simpler and more efficient tax system.

As India prepares for this landmark tax overhaul, the Income Tax Bill 2025 promises to bring greater transparency, reduced litigation, and a forward-looking approach to taxation. The coming weeks will determine the pace of its legislative journey, but one thing is clear—India’s tax system is set for a transformative change.

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New Income Tax Regime: Attractive Rates, But Is It Missing the Mark?

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As Budget 2025 looms closer, anticipation is high, especially for salaried taxpayers hoping for much-needed relief amid rising living costs and an economic slowdown. While the new income tax regime boasts simplified structures and better rates, experts suggest it still lacks certain elements that could make it a game-changer for taxpayers and the economy alike.

Tax Relief: A Catalyst for Consumption and Growth

India’s GDP growth has hit a slowdown in Q2, and experts argue that putting more money in taxpayers’ hands is the fastest route to boosting consumption. This, in turn, could help rejuvenate the nation’s economic momentum.

Sandeep Agrawal, Founder and Director of Teamlease Regtech, explains:

“With India losing its growth momentum in Q2, the Budget aims to address emerging economic challenges. Revising tax slabs, particularly offering benefits for individuals earning up to ₹15 lakh annually, could provide relief to millions of middle-class taxpayers.”

Reports suggest that the upcoming Budget might introduce significant changes, including making annual income up to ₹10 lakh tax-free. Additionally, a new 25% tax slab for incomes between ₹15–20 lakh could be announced. These measures, if implemented, would enhance the appeal of the new tax regime while stimulating spending and growth.

Balancing Simplicity with Flexibility

While the new tax regime eliminates the complexity of the old system by removing most deductions and exemptions, critics believe this simplicity comes at the cost of incentives for long-term savings and retirement planning.

Swapnil Aggarwal, Director at VSRK Capital, emphasizes the need for a middle ground:

“The new regime could benefit from incorporating features of the older system, such as deductions for retirement funds and incentivizing long-term savings. This would combine simplicity with flexibility, aligning with wider goals of taxpayer relief, community security, and sustainable investments.”

Aggarwal further highlights how such changes could integrate the benefits of both systems:

“Such a makeover will raise confidence among investors, widen tax incentives, and promote a holistic development approach as reflected in the priorities of the Budget.”

What’s Missing in the Current Framework?

Although the new regime’s lower tax rates are attractive, its lack of deductions for essential expenses like housing loans, education, and medical insurance has deterred many taxpayers from switching over. Experts argue that incorporating some of these exemptions could strike the perfect balance between simplicity and inclusivity.

Additionally, incentivizing retirement savings through tax benefits could encourage more responsible financial behavior while fostering economic stability.

The Way Forward

If the proposed changes in Budget 2025—such as tax-free income up to ₹10 lakh and a 25% slab for incomes between ₹15–20 lakh—become a reality, they could mark a turning point for the new regime. Coupled with strategic incentives for savings and investments, these measures could enhance the regime’s appeal, benefiting taxpayers and driving holistic economic growth.

As the government prepares to unveil its budget, taxpayers and experts alike are watching closely, hoping for a fiscal plan that balances simplicity, relief, and long-term security.

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18th Lok Sabha First Winter Session: A Chronicle of Chaos and Missed Opportunities

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The first winter session of the 18th Lok Sabha concluded on December 20, leaving a contentious legacy as one of the least productive and most acrimonious sessions in recent history. Marked by bitter exchanges, unfulfilled legislative goals, and protests from both the government and the Opposition, the session underscored a pressing need for the restoration of parliamentary norms and constructive dialogue.

A Session Marred by Conflict

The discord reached a crescendo on the penultimate day, culminating in a physical scuffle between members of Parliament, followed by bizarre allegations and police complaints. The Opposition’s motion of no confidence against Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, was rejected by the Deputy Chairman, intensifying the political friction.

Adding fuel to the fire, Home Minister Amit Shah’s reference to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar became a flashpoint. The Opposition accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misinterpreting Ambedkar’s legacy, weaponizing Shah’s remarks to launch a scathing critique. This acrimony mirrored earlier weeks when the BJP disrupted proceedings by alleging the Congress party’s connections with anti-India elements abroad.

Dismal Productivity and Legislative Stalemate

The session’s productivity painted a grim picture. The Rajya Sabha functioned for only 40% of its scheduled time, clocking just 43 hours and 27 minutes. The Lok Sabha fared marginally better at 54.5% productivity. Both Houses were frequently disrupted over issues such as U.S. billionaire George Soros’s alleged meddling in Indian politics and concerns about the Adani Group.

Out of the 16 legislative bills planned, only one—the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, crucial for the civil aviation sector—was successfully passed by both Houses. The Rajya Sabha also approved the Boilers Bill and the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, bringing essential changes to industrial laws concerning large furnaces, boilers, and the petroleum sector.

The Lok Sabha passed several bills, including:

  • Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill: Addressing the need to safeguard the public sector banking system.
  • Railways (Amendment) Bill: Focusing on the safety of passengers and railway employees.
  • Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill: Advocating for greater transparency in fund allocation for states affected by natural disasters.

Two significant constitutional amendments—the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—were introduced and referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. These aim to facilitate simultaneous elections across the country, a critical element in India’s evolving electoral landscape.

India-China Relations Take Center Stage

Amidst the legislative impasse, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar briefed both Houses on the status of India-China relations. His statements highlighted the government’s diplomatic stance and ongoing efforts to safeguard national interests, a rare moment of focus in an otherwise fractious session.

A Call for Parliamentary Decorum

The winter session starkly demonstrated the erosion of decorum and dialogue in parliamentary proceedings. The heated exchanges and lack of productive debates underscore an urgent need for political leaders to prioritize the nation’s interests over partisan gains. The onus lies on all stakeholders to revive the spirit of constructive discourse and ensure that Parliament functions as a forum for addressing the aspirations of India’s citizens.

As India grapples with pressing economic, social, and geopolitical challenges, the efficiency and integrity of its legislative processes cannot be overstated. The events of this winter session should serve as a clarion call for introspection and reform.

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