Parliament Winter Session Day 5: Pollution Debate, 10 Bills and Key Committee Reports on Agenda

On Thursday, opposition MPs staged a demonstration at Parliament’s Makar Gate, wearing gas masks to highlight the worsening air quality. They demanded comprehensive discussions on the issue in both Houses. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also questioned the central government regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit, alleging that opposition MPs were being denied opportunities to interact with visiting foreign dignitaries.

The session is also slated to see deliberations on the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which, if approved, will increase taxes on tobacco products such as cigarettes, bidis, gutkha, and zarda, making them costlier for consumers.

In addition, Parliament is expected to introduce 10 new bills, according to the Lok Sabha Bulletin dated 22 November. The most significant among them is the Atomic Energy Bill, which proposes allowing private Indian and foreign companies to establish nuclear power plants in the country for the first time.

Another key focus is the ongoing inquiry into the Justice Yashwant Varma case. A three-member committee appointed by the Speaker is tasked with investigating allegations against Justice Varma. Its report is expected to be presented during the session. If the committee finds substantial evidence, an impeachment motion may be tabled for voting. Under constitutional provisions, the motion requires a two-thirds majority in both Houses before being sent to the President for approval. There is speculation that Justice Varma may choose to resign if the committee confirms the charges.

The fifth day of the Winter Session thus combines pressing environmental concerns, legislative developments, and high-profile judicial scrutiny, reflecting the session’s critical agenda and the Parliament’s active engagement on multiple fronts.