The 10-day winter session will begin from 4 December at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi, with a stormy time on the cards.
Published Dec 04, 2023 | 7:00 AM ⚊ Updated Dec 04, 2023 | 7:00 AM
The ten-day-long Karnataka assembly's winter session will kick-start at Suvarna Vidhan Soudha at Belagavi from December 4. (Supplied)
The spotlight of Karnataka politics has shifted to Belagavi as the eagerly awaited winter session is set to commence on Monday, 4 December.
Over the next 10 days, the legislative corridors are expected to echo with debates, discussions, and the potential passage of crucial bills.
The state government is geared up with a substantial legislative agenda: at least 10 key bills are expected to be tabled for deliberation. These proposed laws cover a spectrum of issues, reflecting the diverse challenges and opportunities facing the state.
Adding another layer to the proceedings, the Opposition BJP has announced its intent to unveil a comprehensive exposé, shedding light on 60 alleged errors committed by the Congress government since it assumed power in Karnataka in May this year.
Meanwhile, Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader has announced a reward for the punctual legislators to the house. He also asserted that all arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the 10-day winter session in Belagavi.
On the other hand, Karnataka Legislative Council chairman Basavaraj Horatti has pushed for the shifting of certain secretary-level offices to Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi.
As the winter session of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly unfolds in Belagavi from 4 December, the Congress government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is poised to present a formidable array of proposals, with a commitment to table at least 15 bills.
These range from amendments to regional development boards to crucial updates in healthcare and education policies.
Among the key legislative proposals awaiting deliberation are:
Meanwhile, the BJP and the JD(S), led by Leader of the Opposition R Ashok, are preparing to highlight what they say are 60 significant errors committed by the Congress government during its six months in power.
With a sharp focus on issues ranging from the contentious withdrawal of a CBI investigation against Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to broader concerns encompassing law and order, and even drought management, the Opposition alliance is set to vigorously critique the administration.
Ashok has already told reporters: “In the six months since the Congress government assumed power, we’ve witnessed a cascade of 60 mistakes that, in our view, epitomises a series of administrative failures.”
Recounting the aforementioned “flaws”, he also said: “The government also failed to ensure the implementation of a monthly allowance guarantee for the unemployed, while simultaneously displaying favouritism by quashing the disproportionate assets case against Shivakumar.”
He added: “The BJP and JD(S) are resolute in their commitment to presenting a united stance in the house to hold the government accountable.”
He continued: “Beyond these issues, the Congress’ proclaimed guarantees have proven ineffective, warranting thorough discussion. We are also set to delve into the peculiar circumstances surrounding the death of contractor Ambikapati.”
He also said: “Additionally, we plan to address a range of pertinent issues, including the alleged fake bomb mail to schools, the cancellation of the National Education Policy, the caste census report, and various irrigation projects.”
In an innovative move to encourage punctuality among MLAs, Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader, speaking to reporters in Belagavi on Sunday, announced: “We have decided to reward those MLAs who arrive early for the session with a symbolic tea cup adorned with state and national symbols.”
Khader humorously highlighted that consistently tardy members would also be recognised with a “unique commendation”.
He said: “We believe in acknowledging and incentivising punctuality within our esteemed Assembly. To instil a sense of time consciousness, we’re introducing a distinctive reward system.”
Elaborating on the reward, he said: “The more consistent and punctual elected members will be rewarded with a greater number of tea cups.”
Elaborating on additional arrangements for the session, Khader said: “To enhance the learning experience for schoolchildren attending the session, we’ve made arrangements in the auditorium hall. Students can now enjoy an extended opportunity, with an additional 30 minutes to observe and learn about the proceedings.”
He added: “Moreover, we’re excited to bring a touch of joy by distributing chocolates and soft drinks to the attending children. As we celebrate the Golden Jubilee, a cultural programme will kick off the festivities leading up to the grand ceremony on 12 December.”
Meanwhile, Karnataka Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti expressed disappointment over the state government’s failure to move offices to the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi.
Even after more than a decade of the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha being inaugurated in Belagavi, the state government, irrespective of parties at the helm, had failed to move secretary-level offices there despite appeals from elected members and activists from North Karnataka.
Horatti told reporters in Belagavi: “No concrete development has been witnessed in this regard. It is because of the reluctant attitude of the officials.”
He added: “The government must take bold steps on this to shift offices to the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha. It should also initiate action against such officials.”
He also said that two days have been reserved for the elected members to raise the burning and concerning issues of North Karnataka.
“We have decided to reserve two days exclusively to discuss the issues of North Karnataka. The elected members should make us of this time and raise their voice,” appealed Horatti.
