The Opposition, led by Congress, has set its agenda against the BJP-led NDA government as the monsoon session commences on Monday. They are demanding debates on various contentious issues including the alleged NEET scam, recent UPSC exam controversies, and the Uttar Pradesh government’s directive regarding shopkeepers on the Kanwar Yatra route.
The UP government’s directive did not receive support from key NDA allies, with the Janata Dal (United) among others calling for its withdrawal. Meanwhile, an all-party meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh saw demands from JD(U), Biju Janata Dal, and YSRCP for special category status for Odisha and Andhra Pradesh respectively.
Ahead of the session, Singh emphasized the importance of upholding Parliament’s sanctity and ensuring smooth proceedings, highlighting the government’s readiness to discuss all issues as per parliamentary rules.
The session, crucial as it marks the presentation of the NDA government’s first budget on July 23 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, will also witness demands from Congress and others for a debate on NEET scams and other critical national issues.