Govt aims to pass key bills in winter session

The Union government aims to push through the three new criminal codes and the bill on a panel to select election commissioners before the winter session ends next week, according to people aware of the matter, even as Opposition-led protests over the Parliament security breach have paralyzed both Houses for two consecutive days.

With five working days remaining in the session - it is scheduled to end on December 22- the government is eyeing the passage of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam; and the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill.

"These four bills are our top priority for the session," a top functionary said, indicating that the government might barrel them through even amid the din.

He added that time was running out because, in the Budget session, only the Vote on Account is likely to be cleared ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Friday that the government was ready for debate.