Winter Session Of Parliament Today: Banking Laws, IBC, Waqf Bill... - What's On Agenda?

The Winter Session of India's Parliament begins today, November 25, and will run until December 20, featuring 19 sittings. This session promises to be crucial with 16 key bills on the agenda, including the Waqf Act Amendment Bill, and discussions expected on pressing issues like the US bribery charges against the Adani Group and the ongoing violence in Manipur.

Key Bills for Consideration
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the issues to be discussed in both Houses will be decided by their respective committees, with approval from the chairs. Among the 16 bills listed, five will be introduced, considered, and passed, while ten bills will be up for consideration and passing.

Some of the prominent bills on the agenda include:

Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024: This bill aims to enhance shipping development and ensure compliance with international treaties.

Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024: Seeks to promote coastal trade and the involvement of Indian vessels in national security and commercial needs.

Indian Ports Bill, 2024: Aims to secure conservation and pollution control at ports, in line with global obligations.

Punjab Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024: Seeks to increase the pecuniary appellate jurisdiction of Delhi district courts from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 20 lakh.

Rashtriya Sahkari Vishwavidyalaya Bill, 2024: Proposes the establishment of the Rashtriya Sahkari Vishwavidyalaya.

Banking and Infrastructure Reforms
The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 is also set to be introduced, addressing the tenure of directors in cooperative banks and providing expanded provisions for settling unclaimed amounts. Additionally, bills focused on the regulation of oilfields, goods transport by sea, and boilers are up for consideration.

Key Issues in Parliament
Apart from the legislative agenda, there will be significant political debates in Parliament. The opposition has demanded discussions on the ongoing bribery allegations against the Adani Group following charges filed by US prosecutors. Additionally, the ongoing violence in Manipur will likely be a major talking point during the session.
The Winter Session promises to be a busy one, with the government seeking to advance key legislative reforms, while the opposition is set to press for discussions on critical national issues.