NEW DELHI: The stage is set for a drama-packed winter session of Parliament, slated from December 1 to December 19, government officials announced on Saturday. But hold on — this three-week session will feature only 15 working days, and this has sparked a fiery reaction from the opposition! Why the uproar? Because many see this as a delayed and shortened session, raising eyebrows and questions about what the government really wants to achieve. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju revealed, “President Droupadi Murmu has approved the proposal of government to convene the winter session of Parliament from Dec 1, 2025, to Dec 19, 2025.” The government insists the session will proceed smoothly, but the opposition smells something fishy. Congress criticized the announcement fiercely. The party argues that a short session with limited sittings is a clear sign that the Prime Minister’s government wants to dodge debates and steer clear of tough questions from opposition members. Jairam Ramesh, Indian National Congress spokesperson, bluntly stated, “What is the message being conveyed? Clearly, the government has no business to transact, no bills to get passed, and no debates to be allowed.” Ouch! The backdrop to this galloping drama is the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls happening simultaneously in 12 states and union territories—a sensitive exercise stirring a hornet’s nest with many opposition parties protesting loudly. Last monsoon session saw daily protests and disruptions, especially around SIR in Bihar, so expect tensions to run high. Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien called it “Parliament-Ophobia,” accusing the government of fear in facing the Parliament. On his X (formerly Twitter), he said, “15-day Winter Session announced. Setting dubious records.” But Kiren Rijiju shot back, questioning Congress’s willingness to work in Parliament. He fired, “As if Congress netas are interested in running Parliament! But I will never get tired of repeatedly appealing Congress to participate in Parliament debates and discussions and also not to create obstacles for other sincere MPs.” So, what’s brewing? A stormy session where every day could bring fresh fireworks, debates, and clashes. Will Parliament run like clockwork, or buckle under political pressure? Stay tuned as December approaches!