Parliament's Winter Session Begins with Disruptions as SIR Debate Demand Derails Day One

The winter session of Parliament commenced on a tumultuous note on Monday, December 1, 2025, as opposition parties disrupted proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, demanding an immediate debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The government's refusal to concede to this demand led to repeated adjournments and an eventual walkout by the opposition in the Rajya Sabha, effectively wiping out the day's scheduled business.

The opposition's primary concern revolves around the ongoing SIR being conducted by the Election Commission in several states and Union Territories. They allege irregularities and potential manipulation of voter lists, particularly in states slated for elections in 2026. The Samajwadi Party (SP) had previously warned of disruptions if the government failed to address the SIR issue. SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav emphasized the need to discuss the SIR, alleging large-scale irregularities. Congress deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, accused the ruling party of attempting to undermine democracy and disrupt parliamentary traditions.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the demand for a debate on SIR was under consideration but resisted setting a timeline, a stance rejected by the opposition. The government has maintained that it cannot dictate a timeline for a decision on the SIR debate. Rijiju had earlier suggested that a discussion on SIR could be broadened to encompass overall electoral reforms. The government has also signaled that a discussion on SIR per se would not be possible, as it is an administrative exercise being carried out by the Election Commission (EC), an autonomous body, and the government cannot answer on its behalf.

In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla appealed to members to maintain decorum and resolve differences through debate rather than sloganeering. Despite his appeals, opposition members continued their protests, forcing multiple adjournments. Before the disruptions, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced three bills, including the Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, and bills related to levies on tobacco products and pan masala. The Lok Sabha managed to pass the Manipur GST Bill amidst the commotion.

Rajya Sabha Chairperson CP Radhakrishnan, presiding over his first day in the role, disallowed notices from nine opposition members on various issues, including the SIR discussion, which further fueled the protests. Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Derek O'Brien urged the Chairman to hold a debate on the electoral roll revision exercise.

The government, while not outright rejecting a discussion, has not committed to a specific timeline or format, leading to a stalemate. The opposition has indicated a willingness to discuss SIR within a broader debate on electoral reforms. The disruptions on the first day suggest a contentious winter session ahead, with the SIR issue likely to remain a major point of contention between the government and the opposition.