Parliament braces for a stormy week as opposition parties lines up notices

This week is all set to start on a stormy note in Parliament as opposition parties have lined up adjournment notices on issues like the Rafale deal and farm distress, and a privilege motion against the Attorney General.

The moves will create hurdles for the ruling BJP government in proceeding with its legislative agenda as it will have to spend time and energy countering the charges. The ongoing Winter Session in effect is the last one of the Modi government as the next one is reserved for interim budget. The current session has only 16 working days left while the government faces an uphill task to pass 45 bills. While 20 are listed for introduction, consideration and passage, 23 will be taken up for consideration and passage. Two are for withdrawal.

The Congress will likely rake up the Rafale deal in both houses of Parliament on Monday, said sources. It is expected to be supported by other opposition parties like TMC, Left, RJD, and NCP in its demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe. The party is likely to give adjournment motion under Rule 267 in Rajya Sabha, they said.

Trinamool Congress has sought adjournment to discuss farm distress, said sources. The CPM is looking to make a move for an impeachment motion against a Meghalaya HC judge over his "Hindu Rashtra" comment. Southern parties will add to the din by demanding a special status for Andhra Pradesh, settlement of Cauvery dispute and a flood package for Kerala.