Congress accuses govt of ‘political mileage’ over special Parliament session

The Indian National Congress has criticised the Centre’s decision to convene a three-day special session of Parliament from April 16.

Alleging it violates the Model Code of Conduct and is aimed at gaining political advantage ahead of upcoming state elections. The party claims the timing of the session—amid active campaigning in key states like West Bengal and Tamil Nadu—raises serious concerns about intent.

‘Political mileage’ charge

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh said the move was designed to influence voters, questioning why the session could not be held after the elections. “The only objective of this special session is to grab political mileage,” he said, adding that the government had not adequately communicated its broader legislative agenda to Opposition parties.

Ramesh also alleged that while the government mentioned amendments related to women’s reservation in its outreach, there was no formal proposal or discussion on the proposed delimitation exercise.

Concerns over delimitation

The special session is expected to take up key constitutional amendment bills, including proposals to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to 816 seats and enable the implementation of the women’s reservation law.

However, Congress has cautioned against rushing the delimitation process, calling it a sensitive issue with potentially “dangerous consequences.” The party warned that several states—particularly in the south, northeast, and west—could be adversely affected.

Ramesh claimed that the proposed changes could significantly alter representation, citing an example where Uttar Pradesh’s seat share may rise sharply, while states like Kerala could see only marginal increases.

Opposition strategy

Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi are expected to meet senior party leaders and coordinate with other Opposition parties to chalk out a joint strategy before the session begins.

Election backdrop

The controversy comes as multiple states head into elections. Polling in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry is scheduled for April 9, while West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and 29. Tamil Nadu will go to polls on April 23.

Parliament had earlier been scheduled to adjourn sine die on April 2, according to the government calendar.