An expected discussion among lawmakers on Delhi’s worsening air pollution did not end up taking place as Parliament’s Winter Session ended on Friday, Dec 19, morning. The Session began on December 1 and was marked by the passing of important bills on nuclear energy and rural employment. The latter – the G RAM G Bill that seeks to replace the UPA-era MGNERGA rural employment scheme – was particularly contentious with the Opposition opposing it tooth and nail.
As the Winter Session headed towards its end, it was expected that there would be a discussion on the issue of air pollution in North India. Last week, in a rare show of unity, Rahul Gandhi’s passionate pitch for a discussion on the inherent Delhi pollution swiftly received the Centre’s acceptance. But, even as the residents of the capital and its adjoining regions continue to choke on severe air quality, the discussion on the same has clearly gone for a toss.
Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav was supposed to reply on the pollution matter in Lok Sabha on Thursday at around 6 pm. However, the House was adjourned merely an hour after resumption amid fierce sloganeering by Opposition MPs as Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan spoke about the G RAM G Bill. It was passed, stirring sharp Opposition remarks, then cleared in Rajya Sabha as well in a midnight drama. Meanwhile, the impending pollution discussion – a vital issue haunting the capital for years – was cancelled. Leading up to the initial expected date of discussion, several Congress leaders had submitted an adjournment notice in Parliament, seeking an immediate discussion on the Delhi pollution.
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