Parliament's Winter Session begins with PM Modi's speech

Parliament's winter session is all set to begin on Tuesday, coinciding with election results in 5 states. Arriving at the parliament on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the government is ready to discuss all issues of national importance and also called for cooperation from the opposition so that Parliament functions smoothly. While addressing the media, PM Modi said: 

"This session is important, many issues of public importance will be taken up. I have faith that all the members of the Parliament will respect this sentiment and move ahead. Our efforts are that discussions are held on all issues. Takes matters to conclusion and add value via discussions. Let all parties and parliamentarians work for the people and not for other interests, is my wish".

Read: "Really Good To See Opposition Parties Trying To Forge An Alliance", BJP Leader Mocks Mega Opposition Meet

In the nearly month-long session, the government will push for passage of the triple talaq bill pending in the Rajya Sabha. It had promulgated an ordinance to make the practice of instant triple talaq a penal offence. The Shiv Sena is likely to call for a law to pave the way for construction of a Ram temple at Ayodhya.

According to the Parliamentary Affairs Ministry, 45 bills have been listed for introduction and passage including--The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCIM) Bill, 2018, The National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH) Bill, 2018, The Aircraft (Amendment) Bill 2018 and The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2018.

Over a dozen opposition parties, barring the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Samajwadi Party (SP), held a meeting separately with a larger goal to form a mahagathbandhan or grand alliance to take on the PM Modi-led NDA in 2019. This unity among opposition parties is likely to reflect inside parliament as well.