Expecting high-quality debates from MPs this Parliament session: PM

New Delhi, November 18

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed the hope that the winter session of Parliament will be a productive one with high-quality debates in which all MPs will contribute through their intellect.

The government is open to discussions on all issues, the prime minister told journalists in Parliament complex ahead of the beginning of the session.

The winter session begins on Monday and will continue till December 13.

Modi said the winter session will be the last session of Parliament in 2019 and a very significant one. "This is the 250th session of the Rajya Sabha. During this session on November 26, there is Constitution Day, when our Constitution completes 70 years. The Constitution inculcates the unity, integrity, diversity and beauty of the country and is a driving force for the country," he said.

The 70th year of the Constitution can also be an occasion for an awakening of the people of the country, Modi said.

Stating that he recently had the chance to meet the leaders of all parties, the prime minister described the last sessions as being full of unprecedented achievements.

 "I must say proudly in public that this was not the success of the government. This was not the success of the treasury benches. This was the success of the entire House," he said.

"The credit goes to all MPs. I again express my gratitude to the MPs for their positive active role," he said.

Modi said this session will accelerate the development of the country.

Extending greetings to all MPs, Modi hoped the winter session also enables Parliamentarians to strengthen the country's journey of development and go forward with the speed with which the world is moving.

Incumbent upon govt to run House smoothly: Adhir

Meanwhile, Congress MP and leader of the party in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday said it was the government’s responsibility to run the House smoothly so that debates and discussions can be held on issues concerning the people.

Speaking to reporters, Chowdhury said dialogue was the essence of Parliamentary democracy.

“It is incumbent upon the government to run the House smoothly so that Opposition parties will be able to express their views, articulate their opinion in an appropriate manner. This is the essence of Parliamentary democracy.

“We also expect from the PM and the ruling party that all the issues concerning to the interest of the common people must be allowed to be discussed inside the Parliament. Parliament is meant for discussion, debate and dialogue,” he said.

He also accused the government of labelling anyone who disagreed with them as “Urban Naxals”. PTI