What to Expect from the Lok Sabha's Upcoming Debates on Vande Mataram and Electoral Reforms

The Lok Sabha is set to engage in significant debates on the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram' and electoral reforms. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that discussions will take place on December 8 and 9, respectively. This decision follows an all-party meeting aimed at resolving ongoing tensions regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the debate on 'Vande Mataram', with each topic allotted 10 hours. The Opposition continues to push for assurances regarding the SIR exercise, which has led to recent disruptions in the House. Stay tuned for more updates on these crucial discussions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 2, 2025, 19:25 IST

Lok Sabha Set for Key Debates

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha is gearing up for discussions on the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram' on Monday, followed by a debate on electoral reforms on Tuesday, as announced by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

This decision emerged from an all-party meeting and a Business Advisory Committee (BAC) session led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, indicating a potential resolution to the ongoing stalemate in both Houses regarding the Opposition's request to address the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Rijiju shared on X that the Lok Sabha will commence the discussion on 'Vande Mataram' at noon on December 8, followed by the electoral reforms debate at noon on December 9.

Prior to the BAC meeting, Speaker Birla engaged with party leaders to resolve the deadlock concerning the Opposition's demand for a discussion on SIR.

Congress chief whip K Suresh informed reporters that the BAC meeting covered the upcoming debates on 'Vande Mataram' and electoral reforms, with the SIR discussion included under the electoral reforms agenda. The House will first debate 'Vande Mataram' on Monday, followed by electoral reforms on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to kick off the debate on the 150-year celebration of 'Vande Mataram'.

Rijiju noted that each debate has been allocated 10 hours, with the possibility of extending the time if deemed necessary by the House.

These meetings by the Speaker were prompted by ongoing disruptions in the Lok Sabha related to this issue.

Earlier, Rijiju met with floor leaders from various political parties but did not provide a specific timeline for the electoral reforms discussion, asserting that the Opposition cannot dictate the government's agenda.

He reportedly dismissed the idea of discussing SIR, stating it is an administrative matter for the Election Commission, which does not involve the government.

Nonetheless, the minister expressed willingness to engage in discussions on broader electoral reforms, which fall under the government's jurisdiction.

The Opposition has been pressing for a commitment from the government regarding the SIR exercise during the House discussions.

The Lok Sabha has been adjourned for two consecutive days due to protests from the Opposition concerning the ongoing SIR exercise in 12 states and Union Territories.