Parliament Budget Session Day 9: Key Highlights and Updates
New Income Tax Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha
The Budget Session of Parliament saw intense discussions on its ninth day before Lok Sabha was adjourned until March 10, 2025. Key developments included the introduction of the new Income Tax Bill, protests over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill report, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s defense of the Union Budget in Rajya Sabha.
Finance Minister Defends Budget Amid Global Uncertainty
While speaking in Rajya Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the Union Budget, emphasizing the challenges posed by global economic shifts. She pointed out that many nations promote free markets but continue to impose tariff barriers. She reassured the House that the government remains committed to economic stability, fiscal discipline, and inclusive growth.
Opposition Protests Over Waqf (Amendment) Bill Report
The Joint Committee’s report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill led to strong opposition protests in both Houses. Congress MP Syed Naser Hussain and TMC MP Saket Gokhale criticized the removal of dissenting notes from the report. Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge called the move “anti-democratic” and demanded that Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar reject the report.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Responds to Judge Impeachment Move
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed the motion to impeach Allahabad High Court judge Justice Shekhar Yadav. He clarified that only the Chairman, Parliament, and President hold the authority to handle such matters. The motion, backed by 55 Rajya Sabha MPs, was submitted on December 13, 2024.
Opposition Walkout Over Waqf Bill
The Opposition staged a walkout in Rajya Sabha, demanding that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill report be reconsidered. They accused the government of suppressing dissenting opinions. However, the ruling party dismissed these claims, insisting that all MPs participated in the report’s drafting process.
Lok Sabha Adjourned, Second Half of Budget Session Begins March 10
After a series of heated exchanges, Speaker Om Birla adjourned Lok Sabha until March 10, 2025. Meanwhile, discussions on the Union Budget continued in Rajya Sabha. BJP MP Darshana Singh highlighted that the budget prioritizes farmers, women, and the poor.
Key Takeaways from Budget Session Day 9
- New Income Tax Bill introduced, replacing the outdated tax act.
- Sitharaman defended the budget, citing global economic challenges.
- Opposition protested against Waqf Bill report, calling it undemocratic.
- Rajya Sabha Chairman clarified impeachment process, rejecting opposition claims.
- Lok Sabha adjourned until March 10, while Rajya Sabha continued discussions.
The second half of the Budget Session is expected to witness intense debates and crucial policy decisions. Stay tuned for more updates.
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