New Delhi: Congress parliamentary party leader Sonia Gandhi has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, outlining nine critical issues to be addressed during the upcoming special parliamentary session slated for later this month. These encompass discussions on the current economic landscape focusing on inflation and soaring unemployment rates, scrutiny of recent revelations regarding the Adani group coupled with a plea for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) inquiry, and the imperative to initiate a comprehensive caste census, articulated Congress stalwart Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday.

Furthermore, Gandhi highlighted the necessity to deliberate upon what she perceives as an assault on the nation’s federal structure, evaluate the ramifications of recent natural disasters, notably the floods engulfing several states, scrutinize the India-China border conditions, address episodes of communal unrest in different regions, and closely examine the unfolding situation in Manipur.

The initiation of this dialogue came on the heels of an intensive discussion among opposition parties regarding the pivotal matters they aspire to bring to the forefront during the session scheduled between September 18 and 22. Ramesh expressed concern over the government’s approach towards the session, which has been convened without broad consensus or a shared agenda – a departure from standard protocol. He noted Gandhi’s dismay reflected in her letter regarding the government’s intention to dominate the house bulletin throughout the session’s five-day span, bypassing customary consultations. 

The opposition, represented by Gandhi, vows to champion these pressing issues during the session, striving to spotlight concerns sidelined in the preceding session. This move marks a significant step in fostering open dialogue and consensus-building in the legislative process, potentially paving the way for more inclusive and comprehensive discussions on national concerns.