Daily Current Affairs : 1-September-2023
The recent announcement by the Union government regarding a Special Session of Parliament scheduled from September 18 to 22 has sparked significant interest and discussion among citizens and policymakers alike. This essay delves into the details of this Special Session, examining its purpose, historical context, and the constitutional provisions that govern such sessions.
The Special Session: A Closer Look
The Special Session of Parliament is set to span five sittings, providing ample opportunities for lawmakers to engage in meaningful discussions and debates. However, what has intrigued many is the government’s decision to keep the agenda of the session under wraps, leading to curiosity and speculation regarding the topics to be addressed.
Unconventional Announcement Methods
One noteworthy aspect is the mode of announcement for this Special Session – a social media post. This unconventional approach drew criticism from Opposition leaders who argued that such important matters should be communicated through formal notifications rather than social media platforms.
Sessions of Parliament: An Overview
To understand the significance of a Special Session, it’s essential to comprehend the broader context of parliamentary sessions in India:
- The authority to convene parliamentary sessions lies with the government, with the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs playing a pivotal role.
- The President formally summons MPs for a session, adhering to the provisions of Article 85 of the Constitution.
- Unlike countries with fixed parliamentary calendars, India follows a convention of three annual sessions: the lengthy Budget Session, the Monsoon Session, and the Winter Session.
Constitutional Framework
The summoning of Parliament is governed by Article 85 of the Constitution, which draws its roots from the Government of India Act, 1935. This article stipulates that the President shall summon each House of Parliament to meet at their discretion, provided that no more than six months should elapse between the last sitting in one session and the date appointed for the first sitting in the next session. Additionally, Article 85(2) grants the President the authority to prorogue or dissolve the Houses, as required.
Recent Trends: Flexibility in Sessions
Over the years, parliamentary sessions in India have displayed a degree of flexibility to accommodate political and legislative necessities. Several instances highlight this trend:
- In 2017, the Winter Session was delayed due to the Gujarat Assembly elections.
- In 2011, a decision was made to shorten the Budget Session to enable election campaigning in five states.
- Sessions have occasionally been curtailed or postponed to facilitate the issuance of Ordinances, as seen in the case of the 2016 Budget Session.
- In 2008, an unprecedented extension of the Monsoon Session took place to avert a no-confidence motion, resulting in only two sessions that year.
Important Points:
- The Union government has announced a Special Session of Parliament from September 18 to 22, comprising five sittings for discussions and debates.
- The agenda for the Special Session has not been disclosed, leading to questions about its purpose and focus.
- The announcement of the session through a social media post raised concerns about the use of unconventional methods for such notifications.
- The power to convene parliamentary sessions rests with the government, formalized by the President as per Article 85 of the Constitution.
- India follows a convention of three annual sessions: the Budget Session, Monsoon Session, and Winter Session.
- Article 85 of the Constitution outlines the President’s authority to summon, prorogue, or dissolve parliamentary sessions.
- Historical trends show that the timing and duration of sessions have been adjusted to accommodate political and legislative needs.
- Flexibility in session scheduling has been observed in instances such as delaying the Winter Session due to state elections and shortening the Budget Session for election campaigns.
- Sessions have been altered to issue Ordinances, as seen in the case of the 2016 Budget Session.
- In 2008, an extension of the Monsoon Session took place to prevent a no-confidence motion, leading to only two sessions that year.
- Understanding the constitutional framework and historical context is essential for grasping the significance of Special Sessions and their potential impact on India’s governance.
Why In News
The Union government recently made an exciting announcement regarding a Special Session of Parliament scheduled to take place from September 18 to 22. During this session, critical national issues and legislative matters will be deliberated upon, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and policies to shape the future of the nation.
MCQs about The Significance of Special Parliamentary Sessions in India
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What is the primary concern raised by Opposition leaders regarding the recent Special Session of Parliament?
A. The duration of the session
B. The lack of a clear agenda
C. The absence of a formal notification
D. The choice of social media for announcement
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Who has the authority to formally summon Parliament for a session in India?
A. Prime Minister
B. Speaker of the Lok Sabha
C. President
D. Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs
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Which of the following is NOT a conventional session of the Indian Parliament?
A. Budget Session
B. Monsoon Session
C. Special Session
D. Winter Session
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What is the historical trend regarding the timing of parliamentary sessions in India?
A. Sessions always adhere to fixed dates.
B. Sessions are flexible and can be adjusted based on political needs.
C. Sessions are determined by state governments.
D. Sessions have been eliminated in recent years.
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