Budget Session 2026: Parliament’s Budget Session Begins Today with President’s Address

The 2026 Budget Session of Parliament begins today, Wednesday, with the Union Budget scheduled to be presented on February 1. The session will start with a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament, where President Droupadi Murmu will deliver her address.

Opposition Demands Discussion on Key Issues
During a pre-session all-party meeting on Tuesday, the opposition sought discussion on the ‘Viksit Bharat-Gi Ram Ji Act’ and a special intensive revision of the electoral rolls (SIR). The government, however, declined these requests.

Several opposition leaders, including Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh and CPI(M) MP John Brittas, raised concerns over the absence of a government agenda for the session. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju assured that the agenda would be shared at the appropriate time.

Regarding the opposition demand to discuss the ‘Viksit Bharat-Gi Ram Ji Act,’ the government stated that once a law is enacted, it must be implemented, and “we cannot go into reverse gear.” The minister added that the issues raised by opposition MPs could be taken up during discussions on the President’s address and the Budget.

Government Agenda and Legislative Planning
Typically, the government’s legislative agenda is shared after the President’s address. Rijiju clarified, “I am ready to share the agenda and have asked officials to do so. This is the first session of the year, and we must focus on the smooth functioning of the House.”

Congress Flags Key Concerns
Post the meeting, Congress said it would raise issues related to foreign policy, US tariffs, the declining rupee, MGNREGA, and farmers’ concerns during the Budget Session. Congress leaders alleged that the government often introduces bills at the last minute, leaving the opposition with little time for debate.

CPI(M) MP John Brittas criticized the government’s approach, saying it relies on a “strategy of suspense and surprise.” Opposition MPs reportedly received blank documents during the meeting, raising questions about the government’s intentions regarding the session agenda.

Regional Parties Assert Their Demands
Regional parties also actively voiced their concerns. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) highlighted issues facing Odisha’s farmers and delays in crop insurance, urging immediate action. Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) raised concerns over alleged misuse of central agencies, citing recent raids on I-PAC.