The winter session of Parliament witnessed significant disruptions on Thursday, as debates intensified over the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.
Lok Sabha Passes Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024
The Lok Sabha passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, after a debate led by Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai. Defending the bill, Rai stated, “The Modi government has been providing all the necessary assistance to states which face any disaster,” rejecting opposition criticism and emphasizing the bill’s positive impact.
Key provisions of the bill include:
- Strengthening the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities.
- Amending the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to improve coordination among various authorities and committees.
- Establishing a disaster database and creating Urban Disaster Management Authorities in state capitals and major cities.
- Forming State Disaster Response Forces to enhance disaster preparedness.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the bill, stating, “The game-changing provisions of the law will serve as a fresh impetus to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to build a disaster-resilient Bharat.”
Rajya Sabha Witnesses Ruckus Over No-Confidence Motion
The Rajya Sabha faced repeated disruptions as BJP leaders slammed Congress for submitting a no-confidence motion against Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. The BJP alleged Congress connections with American billionaire George Soros, accusing the party of attempting to destabilize India.
JP Nadda, BJP leader and Union Minister, criticized Congress, stating, “The chairman’s ruling cannot be questioned or criticized. This is contempt of the House and the Chairman.” He condemned Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge for his comments against the Chair during a press conference, calling it a “blow to constitutional values.”
Nadda further alleged that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has ties with Soros, claiming, “What [Soros] does to destabilize the country, Congress follows like a puppet. It can’t be condemned enough.”
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh accused the Chairman of biased conduct, while Kharge countered Nadda’s claims, stating that the BJP was trying to divert attention from critical issues.
Special Debate on Constitution Adoption Anniversary
A special debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution is scheduled to begin in the Lok Sabha on Friday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will initiate the debate, with proceedings set to continue over the weekend. Both BJP and Congress have issued a three-line whip to their members to ensure attendance.
The winter session, which commenced on November 25, has been marked by frequent disruptions and contentious exchanges. It will continue until December 20.