With 6 sittings left, Centre, Opposition try to end standoff over Manipur debate

The Opposition remains adamant on the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the House during any debate on Manipur but for now the next challenge is to finalise the wording of the resolution which is agreeable to both sides.

With just six sittings remaining in the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the government and the Opposition are trying to work out a truce to break the prolonged logjam in the Rajya Sabha on the question of debate on the Manipur violence.

Both sides have agreed to have a debate under Rule 167 under a pre-decided resolution on the issue. The Opposition remains adamant on the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the House but for now the next challenge is to finalise the wording of the resolution which is agreeable to both sides.

Parliament Monsoon Session, August 3, 2023 | updates

The day began in a calmed atmosphere with a convivial exchange between Leader of the House Piyush Goyal and Trinamool Congress floor leader Derek O’Brien.

“We as an Opposition, we want this discussion on Manipur. We are not here to show ego or arrogance. Manipur needs care, healing, it needs to listen to voice of consolation. Let us find a solution because this logjam is not helping any one,” Mr. O’Brien said.

In response, Mr. Goyal, reiterating his point that the government was ready for a debate on the subject from day one, invited the Opposition leaders for tea.

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