RANCHI: The Jharkhand Legislative Assembly is set to kick off its crucial budget session on February 18, Wednesday, following a productive all-party meeting chaired by Speaker Ravindra Nath Mahto. Held Tuesday in the assembly premises, the meeting focused on ensuring smooth and peaceful proceedings throughout the session.
Speaker Mahto briefed reporters post-meeting, revealing detailed discussions with party leaders and officials to streamline house operations. Emphasis was laid on timely submission of government bills, reports, and other documents. Officials received strict instructions to provide answers to pending questions without delay, aiming to prevent procedural disruptions.
Key issues like the state’s health infrastructure and law enforcement took center stage. Mahto urged all parties to engage in serious deliberations on these fronts, stressing the need for constructive debates that yield tangible solutions benefiting the public.
With municipal elections slated for February 23, the parliamentary affairs committee will decide on suspending assembly proceedings that day. This move allows legislators to attend to their electoral duties in constituencies.
Mahto appealed for bipartisan cooperation, underscoring that orderly assembly functioning strengthens democracy. Both treasury and opposition benches must play positive roles.
The meeting saw participation from Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi, AJSU representatives, Congress legislative party leader, and members from various political outfits.