The Winter Session of Parliament started today. Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day after obituary references.

Rajya Sabha suspended scheduled business to take up discussion on demonetisation of currency.   Members from across political parties raised their concerns about the various issues being faced by people related to the demonetisation announcement.  With 86% of the currency in circulation ceasing to be legal tender, the members questioned if the implementation challenges were considered by the government.   Issues such as long queues in banks, inadequate cash in ATM machines, difficulties faced by daily wage earners and agricultural labourers were highlighted by members from the opposition benches.  Members urged the government and banks to take steps the to ease the transition process. Some members also suggested that a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) be set up to examine the issue.

Discussion was continuing at the time of sending this report.

The legislative agenda for the session includes ten Bills for consideration and passing. Additionally, nine Bills are listed for introduction, consideration and passing.

The business announced for the week in Rajya Sabha includes

1.       The Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2014

2.       The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2016

3.       The Whistle Blowers Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2015

4.       The Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2013

5.       The Employee's Compensation (Amendment) Bill, 2016

6.       The Factories (Amendment) Bill, 2016
For details on these bills and the complete legislative agenda, please see our Session Alert here.

By Trina Roy, PRS India