Winter Session of Parliament kicks off with 13 major bills on the agenda, including excise and atomic energy reforms. Opposition demands urgent debate on SIR issue, signalling tense proceedings ahead

As the Winter Session of Parliament opens today, lawmakers are set for a potentially turbulent three weeks. The session, scheduled from December 1 to 19, includes 15 sittings and features an extensive legislative agenda. The Centre is preparing to introduce 13 bills, many tied to national security and economic restructuring, even as the Opposition signals resistance over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to introduce The Central Excise Amendment Bill, 2025, alongside The Health Security National Security Cess Bill, which proposes revising the cess system for high-tax goods like tobacco and pan masala. The government argues that such measures will help sustain revenue for public health and national security, shifting taxation dynamics without lowering current levies.

Other significant proposals include the Atomic Energy Bill—likely to spark debate due to its provision potentially allowing private participation in nuclear power—along with amendments to highway, insurance, corporate, and education laws. Parliament will also review the first set of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26.

Meanwhile, Opposition parties have warned they will insist on an immediate debate on the SIR issue and may obstruct proceedings if their demands are ignored. They are also expected to raise concerns over national security following recent incidents, alongside labour reform delays and state fund disputes.

Analysis: If the government pushes legislation without flexibility, it risks further polarising parliamentary proceedings. A more collaborative approach might avoid disruption and ensure progress on critical reforms. With public focus high on electoral integrity and national safety, how both sides handle the debate could shape political messaging ahead of key upcoming elections.