Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan has convened an all-party meeting on April 24, aiming to foster cooperation between the government and opposition ahead of the second half of the budget session, which begins the following day. The meeting comes as part of an effort to recreate the collaborative environment that facilitated the passage of key bills during the first half of the session.
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders described the gathering as vital for building consensus on significant reform legislation and ensuring the smooth operation of both Houses of Parliament. A key focus for the government is securing approval for the constitutional amendment bill related to the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST).
Government ministers have already engaged in discussions with opposition leaders to build support for the GST bill. Notably, efforts to garner backing from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) included talks with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik during his recent visit to Delhi.
The BJP has expressed cautious optimism about the prospects for cooperation, citing the relatively constructive atmosphere witnessed during earlier parliamentary proceedings. The success of these efforts will be critical for advancing the government's reform agenda in the months ahead.
