The government has called an all-party conference for December 2 ahead of the Winter session of Parliament, according to sources, news agency PTI reported. The session will go from December 4 to December 22. Though the all-party meeting is usually held a day before the session, it has been moved up a day this time, presumably due to the counting of results in five states on December 3, where polls are still open. The outcome of the assembly elections will have a significant impact on the session in which the administration hopes to approve critical legislation.
Earlier, in a post on X, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the session will have 15 sittings spread over 19 days. "Winter Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 4th December and continue till 22nd December having 15 sittings spread over 19 days. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the session," he had stated.
During the session, the Ethics Committee's report on the "cash-for-query" charges levelled against TMC MP Mahua Moitra will be tabled in Lok Sabha.
Before the panel's proposed expulsion can take effect, the House must pass the report.
Three crucial proposals that seek to replace the IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act are expected to be considered during the session, since the standing committee on Home has just endorsed the three reports.
Another important law now before Parliament concerns the appointment of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners.
The administration did not press for its adoption in the special session of Parliament, despite concerns from the opposition and past chief election commissioners, as it intends to equalise the standing of the CEC and ECs with that of the cabinet secretary. They currently have the status of a Supreme Court justice.