New Delhi, December 1, 2025 – The Winter Session of Parliament began today amidst heated exchanges between the government and the opposition, with Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "hijacking Parliament". Gogoi alleged that the government is only interested in passing its own legislative agenda, disregarding crucial issues raised by the opposition.

The session, slated to run until December 19 with 15 sittings, is already facing criticism for its short duration. Gogoi and other opposition leaders have expressed concerns that the limited time will prevent thorough discussion on critical matters.

"It seems the government, under the leadership of the prime minister and the home minister, is looking to finish off India's democracy and parliamentary traditions," Gogoi stated after the all-party meeting held on Sunday. He argued that the government is attempting to "derail Parliament and bury parliamentary traditions".

The Congress party, along with other opposition groups, had demanded discussions on several pressing issues, including national security in the wake of the recent Red Fort blast, rising air pollution levels, the integrity of electoral rolls, farmers' concerns, and foreign policy. However, Gogoi claimed that the government has not included any of these issues in the session's agenda.

"The government hasn't included a single issue raised by the opposition parties in today's agenda. So what's the point? Why call opposition parties to a meeting?" Gogoi questioned.

Echoing Gogoi's sentiments, other opposition leaders have voiced their apprehension about the government's approach to parliamentary proceedings. They have collectively urged the government to address the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union territories, alleging irregularities and demanding transparency in the process.

In response to the opposition's concerns, Prime Minister Modi addressed the media ahead of the session, calling for a smooth and "drama-free" session. He urged all parties to focus on substantive national issues and to utilize the session for constructive debate, setting aside political differences. Modi also expressed his hope that the session would not be used as an outlet for frustration or a display of victory, but rather as an opportunity for nation-building.

"India has demonstrated that democracy can deliver," Modi stated, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values and strengthening the country's economy.

Despite the Prime Minister's appeal for cooperation, the Winter Session's first day witnessed disruptions and adjournments in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Opposition members protested and raised slogans, demanding discussions on the SIR issue and other matters of public concern.

Amidst the uproar, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced several bills, including the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill 2025, and the Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill 2025. The Lok Sabha also passed The Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill-2025.

The government has listed a total of 13 bills to be introduced and considered during the Winter Session, including the crucial Atomic Energy Bill 2025, which seeks to open up the civil nuclear sector to private players, and the Higher Education Commission of India Bill, which aims to establish a new regulatory body for higher education.