New Delhi: The Central Government has clarified that it has no plans to convene a special session of Parliament to introduce the Delimitation Bill or the Women's Reservation Bill later this month. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed reports suggesting that a three-day special session would be held between August 16 and August 18.

Instead, the government is considering introducing the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, provided sufficient political support can be secured.

No Proposal for Special Session

Speaking to the media, Rijiju said there is currently no proposal to summon a separate special session for the two key legislations.

His remarks came amid speculation that the Centre was preparing to call Parliament back after the Monsoon Session specifically to push the Delimitation Bill and legislation related to women's reservation.

Government Seeks Wider Political Consensus

Sources indicated that the government has initiated consultations with various political parties to build consensus on the proposed constitutional amendment.

As part of these efforts, Rijiju reportedly met Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders to discuss the possibility of supporting the legislation.

However, according to sources, the Congress has not extended its support at this stage.

Congress Yet to Finalise Its Position

Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal confirmed that discussions had taken place with the Parliamentary Affairs Minister regarding the delimitation proposal.

He said the party would deliberate internally before communicating its official position. According to Venugopal, the Congress and the broader Opposition continue to maintain their previously stated stand on the issue until further discussions are completed.

Opposition Continues Protest in Parliament

The political developments unfolded amid continued Opposition protests inside and outside Parliament over several national issues.

Opposition MPs held demonstrations within the Parliament complex, marching from the Gandhi statue while raising slogans and displaying placards. During the protest, leaders also highlighted other issues, including allegations related to the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation controversy.

Earlier Attempt Failed

The Centre had earlier convened a three-day special session in April, during which the proposed Constitutional Amendment relating to delimitation and allied legislation was discussed.

However, the government was unable to secure the required numbers to move the constitutional amendment forward, prompting renewed efforts during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

As discussions continue, the government is expected to engage with additional political parties in an effort to build the broad parliamentary support necessary for any constitutional amendment.