​Freeze and thaw, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Winter Session of Parliament commenced on December 1, 2025, and is scheduled to have 15 sittings over 19 days, concluding on December 19, 2025.
• The government has listed 14 Bills for consideration, including the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025, and the Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025.
• Parliament will discuss a motion on electoral reforms and debate the national song Vande Mataram to mark the 150th year of its composition.
• The Opposition seeks debates on national security, farmers’ problems, price rise, air pollution, and the use of federal agencies.

Detailed Insights:

• The government aims to pass key legislation such as the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025, which focuses on simplifying the criminal justice system.
• The Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025, seeks to restructure higher education regulators, potentially leading to Centre-State disputes over unilateralism.
• The session will address electoral reforms, with the ruling party prioritizing a synchronized election schedule and the Opposition raising concerns about electoral roll malpractices.
• The Health Security se National Security Cess Bill introduced by the Finance Minister, is a repackaged cess on tobacco products.
• Discussions on Vande Mataram commemorate its 150th anniversary, providing a platform for reflection on its historical and cultural significance.
• The Opposition is also pushing for discussions on critical issues like the national security situation following the Delhi blasts and challenges faced by farmers due to trade negotiations.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Electoral Reforms: Changes and improvements suggested or implemented in the electoral system to enhance fairness, transparency, and efficiency.
• Criminal Justice System: The network of government and private agencies intended to manage accused and convicted criminals.
• Cess: A tax levied for a specific purpose in addition to the existing tax.