Winter session 2023: Discussion to be raised on ‘economic situation in the country’
Parliament has witnessed significant discussions and decisions, touching upon various crucial aspects of the nation's governance and public policy. On December 4, Baishya, an Asom Gana Parishad leader, raised a question regarding the increase in crude oil royalty to the Assam government in line with international prices. In response, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri assured that Assam's earnings from the energy sector would increase with expanded capacity and production.
A major highlight on the first day of the winter session was the passing of a bill to repeal the Indian Post Office Act, 1898. This move aimed to consolidate and amend laws relating to post offices in India. However, it sparked a debate over potential surveillance concerns.
The Opposition questioned certain bill provisions, fearing the creation of a "surveillance state". The government, represented by Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan, dismissed these fears. He stated that the bill included necessary measures for national security and monitoring illegal activities like narcotics trafficking.
The bill, passed by a voice vote, empowers the Central Government to intercept, open or detain postal items for reasons of state security, public order or other legal contraventions. The Ethics Committee's report on cash-for-query allegations against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra was not tabled in the Lok Sabha, despite being on the agenda. Rajya Sabha also chose to discontinue the suspension of AAP MP Raghav Chadha, considering his suspension since August 11 as sufficient punishment.
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