The political temperature in New Delhi has risen following a pointed letter from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kharge warned against rushing a controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill through Parliament, urging instead for inclusive discussions and due process.
## Delay in Parliament Session Raises Eyebrows
On Friday, Kharge expressed deep concern over the unusual delay in officially ending the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Although both Houses were adjourned sine die on August 13, they have yet to be prorogued—64 days later—an occurrence he described as “unprecedented”.
## Call for All-Party Meeting on Constitutional Amendments
Kharge’s letter underscored the need for an all-party meeting to review government proposals before they reach the legislative stage. “All political parties must be given sufficient time to deliberate among themselves, with each other and with all other stakeholders,” he wrote, emphasizing that this is the fourth time he has made the request.
Earlier attempts had been made to request such a meeting:
– April 11: Kharge asked Modi to convene a meeting before introducing the Delimitation Amendment Bill.
– April 14–17: The government circulated the delimitation bills and called a special session; the bills later failed in the Lok Sabha due to lack of support.
– July 16 & August 27: Kharge reiterated the call for talks.
## Warning Against “Bulldozing” Legislation
Kharge cautioned the Prime Minister not to “bulldoze a far-reaching Constitutional Amendment Bill”, as reportedly attempted in April when the delimitation bills were rushed through late-evening procedures and emergency sessions. He warned that such hasty measures might result in another proposal meeting the same fate—being unanimously rejected by Parliament.
## Context: Disruptions in the Monsoon Session
The Monsoon Session, which ran from July 20 to August 13, ended as scheduled. However, it was marred by repeated disruptions over sensitive issues:
– Alleged Ram Temple offerings theft in Ayodhya
– NEET examination paper leak
– Police conduct during NEET protesters’ demonstrations in Delhi
Kharge linked the unrest during the session to the need for caution and careful handling of constitutional amendments.
## Strategic Implications
The letter comes at a moment when the government appears poised to pursue fresh constitutional changes—areas that require a two-thirds majority in Parliament. Kharge’s public appeal suggests growing opposition wariness over how such legislation may be introduced.
By insisting on transparency and bipartisan dialogue, Kharge aims to ensure any amendment is backed by broad consensus rather than partisan approval.
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