Key Issues on the Agenda as Parliament’s Winter Session Begins December 1, 2025

The winter session of Parliament is set to commence under significant political tension, with crucial topics including the Special Intensive Revision of voter rolls, national security concerns, air quality crises, and legislative reforms.

Parliament’s Winter Session Kicks Off Amid Controversy and Confrontation

New Delhi, December 1, 2025 — The winter session of Parliament commenced today, shrouded in controversy as the contentious Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls takes center stage. This session, which will run until December 19, is expected to be marked by significant political friction, with opposition parties, led by the Congress, threatening to disrupt proceedings if their demands for discussion are not met.

A Divided House

The SIR process, currently underway in 12 states, has drawn sharp criticism from various opposition factions, including the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Samajwadi Party, and DMK. They allege that the revision is "deeply flawed" and politically motivated, particularly in light of upcoming assembly elections. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has accused the ruling BJP of manipulating the voter roll deletion process to its advantage.

Despite the uproar, the government maintains that the SIR is a routine exercise mandated by the Election Commission of India. However, the NDA government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has not committed to a discussion on the matter, further escalating tensions.

National Security Under Scrutiny

Another pressing issue on the agenda is national security, following a recent blast near the Red Fort in Delhi, allegedly linked to a terror racket. The Congress has called for a full-day discussion on internal security, citing lapses in intelligence and law enforcement. While the government is open to discussing security matters, it is expected to resist any attempts to critique its policies directly.

Air Quality Crisis

The ongoing air pollution crisis in northern India, particularly in Delhi, is also set to dominate discussions. MPs from affected regions are likely to push for a comprehensive, time-bound action plan to tackle hazardous air quality, addressing issues such as stubble burning and industrial emissions.

Ideological Debates

On a more ideological front, the Modi government has scheduled a special discussion to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song "Vande Mataram." This debate is anticipated to spark intense exchanges, with ruling party leaders arguing that the removal of certain lines in 1937 contributed to the seeds of Partition, while opposition parties view it as a diversion from pressing issues.

Legislative Priorities

Amidst the political sparring, the government is prioritizing a series of economic and financial bills. Key proposals include amendments to the Atomic Energy Bill, aimed at inviting private investment into the nuclear power sector, and the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to attract global capital by potentially raising the cap on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Additionally, changes to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code are intended to enhance creditor rights and expedite insolvency resolutions.

As the winter session unfolds, all eyes will be on how these contentious issues are navigated, and whether Parliament can rise above the fray to address the pressing concerns of the nation.