Parliament Winter Session Day 2: Central Excise Bill Takes Centre Stage as Opposition Gears Up

New Delhi, Dec 02 : Parliament reconvenes on Tuesday morning for Day 2 of the Winter Session, with the government expected to push ahead with key financial business and two major committee reports. Monday’s proceedings were repeatedly disrupted, raising concerns over the limited 15-day schedule available until the session ends on December 19.

The opening day, intended to be routine, saw multiple adjournments that prevented a scheduled debate from taking place. The only substantial business completed was the passage of the Manipur GST (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, through a voice vote. With valuable floor time lost, members across parties are wary of further disruptions stalling crucial legislative work.

Finance Committee to Present Two Crucial Reports

The Standing Committee on Finance will table two reports today:

The 27th Report on the performance of the National Statistical Commission (NSC).

The 28th Report reviewing the functioning of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and emerging challenges.

These reports are expected to influence policy decisions ahead of the upcoming Budget cycle.

Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025 on Agenda

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will move the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, for consideration and passage. The proposed amendments are part of the government’s continued efforts to streamline India’s indirect tax architecture.

Rule 267 Notice Likely to Trigger Debate in Rajya Sabha

AAP MP Sanjay Singh has submitted a Rule 267 notice seeking suspension of regular business to discuss concerns over the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The notice references “arbitrary deletions, BLO deaths, disenfranchisement” and potential violations of Articles 14, 21 and 326, signalling a likely flashpoint in the Upper House.

Day 1 Recap: Disruptions from the Start

The Lok Sabha saw protests within minutes of convening, with Opposition members raising issues already pending before the Supreme Court. The House was adjourned soon after tributes to former MPs, and again when it reassembled at noon amid fresh sloganeering.

High Cost of Lost Parliamentary Time

Running Parliament costs around ₹2.5 lakh per minute — almost ₹1.5 crore per hour when both Houses are in session. Monday’s repeated interruptions renewed conversation about the significant financial impact of stalled proceedings.

EC Had Met Parties Earlier

Concerns over electoral roll revisions have been simmering. A Trinamool Congress delegation met the Election Commission in late November, seeking clarity. The poll body has reiterated that it remains open to meeting any party seeking explanation.

Despite Disruptions, One Bill Passed

The Manipur GST (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, was the lone piece of legislation cleared on Monday.

PM’s Call for Constructive Conduct

Ahead of the session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all parties to engage responsibly, saying, “India has proven that democracy can deliver.”