Opp. slams govt ‘arrogance’ in meet
■ PM says all issues to be addressed during Budget Session
Accusing the government of being ‘arrogant’ by not addressing anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protesters’ concerns and trying to reach out to them, the Oppos-ition on Thursday raised the issue of nation-wide protests across the country against the legislation.
The Prime Minister is said to have told Opposition parties during the all-party meeting convened by the parliamentary affairs minister Prahlad Josh, that the government was ready to discuss all matters during the Budget Session of Parliament, which is due to start from January 31.
He called for a “greater focus” on economic issues in the session and how India can gain in the prevailing global situation, Mr Joshi told reporters after the meeting, attended by 26 parties.
They raised a host of issues, including the nationwide protests against the CAA, the “worsening” economic situation and “rising” unemployment. They also demanded the release of detained political figures in Jammu and Kashmir.
Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad told reporters that Opposition parties sought immediate release of former state chief minister
Farooq Abdullah so that he could attend the session from Friday.
Anand Sharma of the Congress added that the issue of some “incendiary” statements made by BJP leaders during the Delhi poll campaign was also raised and Mr Modi was asked to intervene in the matter.
The Election Commission on Thursday barred Union minister
Anurag Thakur and BJP MP Parvesh Verma from campaigning for three and four days respectively for their objectionable remarks.
Mr Joshi said the Prime Minister told the leaders that parties should not confine themselves to a mere “charcha” (conversation) but should have rich and structured discussion on every issue.
In his concluding remarks, Mr Modi welcomed the suggestions of most members that the session should focus on the prevailing economic situation in the country, an official statement later said.
“Most of the members have asked for discussion on the economic situation concerning the country. I welcome this and we need to discuss the economic issues as suggested by you all. We should focus on how we can turn the global scenario in favour of India,” he said.