The Congress party has called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately convene an all-party meeting to discuss and finalize the agenda for the upcoming session of Parliament. The request comes following the Prime Minister’s return to the country after attending international engagements.
Addressing a press briefing, Congress spokespersons stated that all-party meetings ahead of parliamentary sessions are a long-standing democratic practice and are essential for ensuring smooth and effective functioning of both Houses. The party argued that such a meeting would allow all political parties to voice their views, raise concerns, and contribute constructively to the upcoming session.
The Congress emphasized that with the Monsoon Session of Parliament expected to begin shortly, it is important for the government to take the opposition into confidence and ensure clarity on the legislative business that is likely to be taken up. The party noted that in the absence of prior consultation, sessions often witness disruptions and a lack of focus on pressing national issues.
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh stated that the Prime Minister’s participation in an all-party meeting would demonstrate seriousness in fostering democratic dialogue. He added that it is the government’s responsibility to create a platform for discussion on key matters such as economic policy, national security, employment, and inflation, all of which are likely to feature in public discourse during the session.
Ramesh also noted that opposition parties have several issues to raise, including questions over transparency in recent legislative processes, alleged misuse of investigative agencies, and demands for debate on economic inequalities. According to him, these topics should not be sidelined, and a pre-session consultation would help frame a productive and issue-focused agenda.
The Congress further criticized the government for delaying the announcement of the session schedule and the absence of outreach to opposition parties. They argued that democratic cooperation must not be reduced to a formality and that the Prime Minister himself should take the lead in encouraging open dialogue across party lines.
This appeal comes at a time when political tensions have been heightened following the recent elections and cabinet reshuffle. With several opposition leaders demanding greater accountability and debate on key policies, the upcoming session is expected to be contentious. An all-party meeting, the Congress insists, could help prevent procedural deadlocks and ensure that Parliament focuses on substantive national issues.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Prime Minister’s Office or the Parliamentary Affairs Ministry regarding the Congress's request. However, sources indicate that discussions about the session’s dates and legislative agenda are underway within government circles.
With the Parliament session approaching, the demand for greater political consultation is gaining traction across the opposition. Whether the Prime Minister acts on this call for dialogue will be closely watched in the days ahead.
