Parliament Logjam: Rijiju Meets Rahul, Opposition Demands Shah's Statement

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met with Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday in an effort to break the persistent parliamentary deadlock. The two leaders engaged in discussions regarding key legislative matters, including the proposed delimitation Bill and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment (FCRA) Bill, 2026. This meeting comes amidst a prolonged period of disruption in both Houses of Parliament.

Speculation had been rife about the government potentially convening a special three-day session after Independence Day to fast-track the women’s reservation Bill and the delimitation Bill. However, Mr. Rijiju clarified that "there is no such proposal" to hold a special session or extend the ongoing Monsoon Session.

During the nearly 50-minute meeting, held at Mr. Gandhi's Parliament office, Mr. Rijiju reportedly sought the Congress leader’s views on the party’s stance regarding delimitation. In response, Mr. Gandhi conveyed that certain demands from the Opposition were non-negotiable for the smooth functioning of the House. These demands include a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the police action against students protesting the NEET paper leak, and a comprehensive debate on the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The Congress leaders, including general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal, deputy leader in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi, and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who were also present, reiterated their strong opposition to any constitutional amendment aimed at carrying out the delimitation exercise.

The government's outreach to the Opposition occurred on a day when Opposition MPs conducted a symbolic march within the Parliament complex, highlighting Home Minister Shah’s continued absence from the House proceedings. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have faced repeated disruptions, leading to adjournments. Despite the ongoing protests, the Rajya Sabha managed to pass the MSME Bill. This was the second meeting between Mr. Rijiju and Mr. Gandhi within the last ten days, underscoring the urgency to resolve the parliamentary impasse.

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