Lok Sabha to discuss Rlys, Jal Shakti grants, Immigration Bill
The government is set to push for the passage of the contentious Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha this week, alongside discussions on the demands for grants for key ministries, including railways, agriculture, and Jal Shakti.
As per decisions taken by the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla has been authorised to take up discussions on the demands for grants for two additional ministries from among defence, external affairs, social justice, and urban development & housing.
A total of two hours has been allocated for discussion and passage of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025. The bill, which was introduced by the government in Lok Sabha last week, has faced strong opposition, mainly from the Congress. Congress MP from Chandigarh, Manish Tewari, has argued that the bill’s provisions violate fundamental aspects of the Constitution. He has also suggested that the legislation be sent to a select committee for further scrutiny.
The government had introduced the Bill in Lok Sabha last week.
The BAC has allotted 10 hours for the discussion and voting on the demands for grants for the railways ministry, which is scheduled for Monday, March 17.
On March 18, the entire day has been reserved for discussion and voting on the demands for grants for the Agriculture Ministry.
Similarly, on March 19, the entire day has been allotted for the Jal Shakti ministry’s grants discussion and voting.
If time permits, depending on the Speaker’s discretion, four additional hours have been allocated for discussions on the demands for grants of two additional ministries from among defence, external affairs, urban development, and social justice, as per the BAC schedule.
2 hours allocated
The Business Advisory Committee has allocated two hours for the Bill’s passage, despite opposition from Congress MP Manish Tewari, who argues it violates constitutional principles and should be sent to a select committee. Additionally, 10 hours are allotted for railway grants on March 17, while March 18 and 19 are reserved for agriculture and Jal Shakti. The Speaker may also allow discussions on defence, MEA, urban development, and social justice grants.
