Tumultuous start to parliament's winter session

The Winter Session of Parliament commenced on December 1, set to run until December 19 with 15 sittings in total. The government has lined up an ambitious legislative slate, including 13 major bills aimed at reforming sectors like finance, energy, and infrastructure.

Among the key proposals are amendments to insurance laws, excise duties, and corporate regulations, reflecting the NDA's push for economic reforms. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman took centre stage on the opening day, introducing the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to impose excise duties on tobacco products, and the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, targeting a new cess on pan masala to fund health and security initiatives. 

These moves come as part of a broader effort to replace existing GST cess mechanisms with targeted levies, potentially generating additional revenue for national priorities.

Other notable bills on the docket include the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes raising the foreign direct investment (FDI) cap in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%, aiming to attract more global capital and enhance competition. The Atomic Energy Bill is another highlight, focusing on modernising India's nuclear framework to boost clean energy production and align with international standards. 

Additionally, the National Highways (Amendment) Bill and the Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill are slated for discussion, with the former addressing infrastructure upgrades and the latter streamlining business regulations. The session's economic agenda also encompasses the Promotion and Development of Industries Bill, though details remain sparse in initial listings.

Despite the packed schedule, legislative progress was limited on Day 1. Amid the din, the Lok Sabha managed to pass a bill related to Manipur's GST framework, but much of the time was lost to procedural halts. The government's strategy appears geared toward the swift passage of these reforms, leveraging its majority, but opposition tactics have already cast a shadow over smooth proceedings.

Opposition sparks pandemonium over electoral concerns

From the outset, the session descended into chaos as opposition parties, led by the I.N.D.I.A., raised vehement protests over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. SIR, a process by the Election Commission to update voter lists, has been accused by critics of leading to "vote chori" or voter deletions, particularly in areas with minority and opposition strongholds. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, demanded an immediate debate, chanting slogans like "SIR Band Karo" (Stop SIR) and storming the well of the House. The uproar forced multiple adjournments in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

In the Lok Sabha, proceedings were halted shortly after commencing at 11 AM, with Speaker Om Birla adjourning the House first till noon, then till 2 PM, and eventually for the entire day amid unrelenting sloganeering. Between 11 AM and 2 PM, the chamber saw only about 50 minutes of actual business, with opposition MPs waving placards and shouting demands for accountability on electoral integrity. Rajya Sabha faced similar disruptions, with Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar expressing frustration over the "wasted time" and urging members to uphold parliamentary decorum.

The protests spilt outside the chambers, with opposition figures like Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and DMK's Kanimozhi staging a demonstration at Parliament's Makar Dwar. They accused the government of manipulating voter rolls to influence upcoming elections, linking SIR to broader concerns about democratic erosion. Social media buzzed with clips of the ruckus, highlighting the financial toll—each minute of Parliament costs taxpayers approximately ₹2.5 lakh, with lakhs already squandered on Day 1. Critics from the opposition camp argued that the government's refusal to address these issues is a form of "escapism," forcing disruptions as the only recourse.

Government pushes back, calls for constructive dialogue

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media ahead of the session, urging the opposition to prioritise "delivery over drama" and allow Parliament to function effectively. He emphasised the need for debates on national issues rather than disruptions, subtly criticising the INDIA bloc's tactics as inherited entitlement. Rajya Sabha Leader of the House JP Nadda echoed this sentiment, appealing for cooperation to pass crucial legislation. The BJP has countered opposition claims on SIR, asserting that the process is routine and essential for clean elections, with no evidence of targeted deletions.

Despite the turmoil, the government remains optimistic about advancing its agenda. Finance Minister Sitharaman's bill introductions proceeded amid the noise, signalling determination to push through reforms. However, walkouts and jibes marked the day, with opposition MPs accusing the ruling party of "hijacking" the agenda and avoiding accountability on pressing matters like Delhi pollution and women's reservation implementation.

Day 2 and beyond: More storms on horizon?

As Day 2 unfolds on December 2, tensions show no signs of abating. Opposition leaders plan to intensify protests over SIR, Delhi's air quality crisis, and alleged electoral manipulations, potentially leading to further adjournments. Discussions on government policies and national issues are scheduled, including potential debates on the introduced bills. With the session's short duration, the coming days will test both sides' resolve—whether constructive dialogue prevails or pandemonium persists.

This stormy start underscores deeper political divides, with the opposition leveraging SIR as a flashpoint to challenge the government's electoral strategies. As bills on nuclear energy, excise, and insurance hang in the balance, the nation watches to see if Parliament can rise above the fray to deliver meaningful legislation.