Although the government’s original intention was to advance 12 bills — 10 of which are new — through both Houses, progress has been sluggish, largely due to disruptions related to the Opposition’s call for a debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.
So far, the government has gained parliamentary approval for three legislative measures in the first two weeks. These include the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, amendments to the Central Excise Act to allow for a higher cess on pan masala and tobacco products, and the Manipur GST Bill, which replaces a prior ordinance.
Important draft laws not yet with MPs
Two key proposals — the Atomic Energy Bill, which aims to open the atomic sector to private investment, and the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) Bill, designed to establish a single regulatory body for higher education — have yet to be shared with members, according to a Hindustan Times report.
“We have not received copies of these two bills. There has been no dialogue between the government and the Opposition regarding the timeline for these bills,” TMC MP Sougata Ray stated, as reported by HT.
A senior Congress MP from the Rajya Sabha also voiced concerns, remarking, “Time is of the essence. In the Upper House, the debate on SIR remains unfinished. We don’t believe the government intends to pass many bills.”
Cabinet likely to approve additional bills
The Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is set to convene on Friday, December 12.
As per senior government officials referenced by HT, the Cabinet may sanction additional Bills for introduction before the session concludes.
The Winter Session, which commenced on December 1, is scheduled to wrap up on December 19.
Other new Bills on the horizon
Among the remaining proposals is the National Highways Amendment Bill, which aims to simplify land acquisition for highway development.
While land acquisition typically falls under broader land and rehabilitation laws, the suggested amendments would apply specific relaxations for road construction, according to HT.
The government also plans further revisions to the Companies Act, 2013, and the LLP Act, 2008, aimed at improving the ease of doing business.
A Bill designed to repeal 120 outdated laws is anticipated, alongside the Securities Markets Code Bill, 2025. This legislation would merge the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992, the Depositories Act, 1996, and the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 into a unified regulatory framework, as reported.
Session characterized by debates and disruptions
The opening week of the Session experienced multiple adjournments as the Opposition advocated for a debate on the SIR process.
Parliament also dedicated considerable time to discussing the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram and evaluating electoral reforms.
