congress-strategy-group-meets-at-sonia-gandhi-s-residence

The Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group is set to meet on Monday evening at the residence of Sonia Gandhi, the Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson. This meeting, scheduled for 6 pm, aims to discuss the strategy and key issues to be raised during the ongoing Budget session of Parliament.

 

The Budget session, which began on Monday, includes 16 sittings spread over 22 days. On the first day of the session, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Economic Survey 2023-24 along with a statistical appendix.

 

The presentation of the Economic Survey is a prelude to the Union Budget, which is set to be presented in Lok Sabha on July 23. This will be the first full budget of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in its third term.

 

The Budget session is primarily focused on financial business, as noted by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju. The agenda includes the presentation and discussion of the Union Budget for 2024-25, as well as the consideration and passage of several bills. The government aims to push through its legislative agenda while addressing the financial matters central to the session.

 

Opposition parties are gearing up to challenge the government on various issues during the session. Key among these issues are the controversy surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) and the recent police directive regarding the Kanwar Yatra route. The opposition sees these as opportunities to hold the government accountable and raise public concerns.

 

The NEET-UG row has been a contentious topic, with widespread debate over the fairness and management of the medical entrance examination. The opposition is expected to question the government on the handling of the exam and the policies affecting students nationwide.

 

Additionally, the Kanwar Yatra, a significant pilgrimage for Shiva devotees, has sparked controversy due to the police directive on its route. The opposition may use this issue to highlight concerns over religious freedom and public safety.

 

The Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group's meeting will likely focus on formulating a cohesive approach to these and other issues, ensuring that the party's stance is clearly articulated in the parliamentary debates.

 

With the Economic Survey already tabled, discussions will also include responses to the survey's findings and how they align with the party's economic policies and goals.

 

As the Budget session progresses, the Congress and other opposition parties will aim to scrutinise the government's proposals and push for amendments where they see fit. The session promises to be a robust exchange of ideas and policies, with both sides prepared to defend their positions vigorously.

 

The outcome of the Budget session will have significant implications for the country's economic direction and the political landscape. The strategies and issues raised by the Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group will play a crucial role in shaping the debates and decisions made in this critical parliamentary session.