New Delhi, 19 July (H.S.): A day ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the Central government on Sunday convened an all-party meeting and urged all political parties to cooperate in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House. Chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the meeting saw the government appeal to the Opposition for constructive discussions on important bills and positive cooperation during the session.

During the meeting, Opposition parties raised objections over the invitation extended to representatives of a group formed by members who had separated from their original party. In protest, some Opposition leaders staged a symbolic walkout for a brief period. However, they later returned to the meeting and participated in the discussions.

The meeting, convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, was attended by Union Minister and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha J.P. Nadda, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal, Dr. L. Murugan and other senior leaders. A total of 58 leaders representing 40 political parties participated in the meeting.

According to the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, the meeting began with the opening remarks by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju subsequently conducted the proceedings. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Defence Minister thanked all leaders for their presence, suggestions and active participation.

Rijiju appealed to all political parties to extend cooperation in ensuring the smooth functioning of both Houses of Parliament. He said the government was ready to discuss all important issues permitted under parliamentary rules. He urged the Opposition to play a constructive role in the legislative business during the upcoming session.

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs said that leaders of various political parties shared their views on issues they intend to raise during the Monsoon Session. Several parties placed their priorities and concerns before the government, which assured them that all suggestions would be considered seriously.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said all parties had been requested to ensure smooth proceedings in Parliament and participate in meaningful discussions on bills. He said the government would introduce several important legislations during the Monsoon Session and appealed to the Opposition to engage in constructive debates and support their passage.

Rijiju said that in a democracy, every political party has the right to express its views. He added that disrupting proceedings and avoiding discussions does not benefit any party politically. He said if Parliament functions in an orderly manner, all parties, including smaller groups, will get adequate opportunities to present their views.

The Parliamentary Affairs Minister said differences of opinion emerging during an all-party meeting are a natural part of the democratic process. He added that the government listened to the suggestions of all parties and would take appropriate note of them.

It may be noted that the Monsoon Session of Parliament will begin on Monday, July 20, and is scheduled to continue until Thursday, August 13, depending on government business requirements. The session is expected to have 19 sittings over a period of 25 days. During the session, the government plans to take up legislative business as well as discussions on various national and public interest issues.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar