The Indian government is reportedly making preparations to convene a special session of Parliament later this month. The primary agenda for this proposed session includes advancing crucial constitutional amendment bills related to the delimitation of constituencies and the long-pending women's reservation bill.
Sources indicate that the Centre is confident about securing the necessary numbers in the Lok Sabha to pass these significant bills. This optimistic outlook comes despite a previous setback during the Budget Session, where a similar constitutional amendment bill failed to pass in the Lower House on April 17. Constitutional amendments require a special majority, specifically a two-thirds majority of members present and voting, which translates to roughly 360 seats in the current Lok Sabha.
Government Seeks Cross-Party Support
To overcome the challenge of securing a special majority, the government is actively engaging with various opposition parties. Reports suggest outreach efforts include discussions with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), following its recent split from the Congress and exit from the INDIA bloc after the Tamil Nadu elections. Additionally, the Centre is in communication with several smaller opposition parties to consolidate support ahead of a potential vote.
The government's position in the Lok Sabha has reportedly strengthened since the previous session, with some members from the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) having switched to the ruling side. This shift in allegiances contributes to the Centre's increased confidence in passing the amendment bills.
Timing and Logistics of the Special Session
The proposed special sitting is expected to be finalized with consideration for the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, scheduled for October 26 and 27 at Samvidhan Sadan. While the exact dates are yet to be announced, sources suggest that a week's notice would typically be given before the session is convened.
It is noteworthy that the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which concluded on August 13, has not yet been prorogued. This administrative detail provides the government with the procedural flexibility to convene a special sitting without requiring a fresh summons for a new session.