Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi engaged in a nearly 50-minute telephonic conversation with Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju regarding the contentious proposed Delimitation Bill. The outreach, confirmed by government sources, aims to foster wider political consensus ahead of the legislation's introduction in Parliament amidst ongoing disruptions during the Monsoon Session.
Gandhi Calls for All-Party Deliberation
During their extensive discussion, Rahul Gandhi reportedly suggested that the Centre convene an all-party meeting to deliberate on the Delimitation Bill. However, government sources indicated that initial consultations with other political parties had already taken place. Gandhi subsequently informed the government that he would first consult with various opposition parties before formally communicating the Congress's stance on the proposed legislation.
The government emphasized that the Congress, as the principal opposition party, was being engaged to ensure broad political buy-in for the significant bill. Despite the ongoing dialogue, government sources maintained that there was "no deadlock" over the legislation and expressed confidence in securing the necessary parliamentary support.
Opposition Demands Amidst Monsoon Session Disruptions
The conversation between Gandhi and Rijiju unfolds against a backdrop of persistent parliamentary disruptions. The opposition has been demanding statements from both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on several pressing issues.
- Police action during the July 20 CJP-led protests.
- Allegations concerning the embezzlement of Ram Mandir donation funds.
Rahul Gandhi specifically reiterated his demand for Home Minister Amit Shah to address Parliament on these matters. Earlier reports also indicated Gandhi's push for broader consultations on the Delimitation Bill, including circulating the draft legislation—which reportedly includes a 50 percent increase in Lok Sabha seats—among all political parties before its formal introduction.
As parliamentary proceedings continue to be affected by repeated adjournments, the government's outreach to the opposition signals an effort to navigate complex legislative challenges and secure cooperation on key policy initiatives like the Delimitation Bill.