Battle of Words: Kharge and Sitharaman Spar Over Women’s Reservation and Taxation

Fiery Clash in Indian Parliament: Kharge and Sitharaman Debate Women’s Bill and GST

A heated and intense debate unfolded in the new Indian Parliament as Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clashed over two crucial issues – the proposed women’s reservation bill and the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The exchange of words between the two prominent leaders shed light on the divergent views within the Indian political landscape.

Key Points from the Heated Debate:

1. Kharge’s Allegations: Mallikarjun Kharge accused political parties of potentially exploiting the women’s reservation bill by selecting uneducated and voiceless women who may not be adequately prepared for the responsibilities entrusted to them.
2. Sitharaman’s Defense: Nirmala Sitharaman, a prominent member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), strongly objected to Kharge’s assertions. She contended that his statements were overly generalized, characterizing them as “sweeping statements.”
3. Empowerment of Women: Sitharaman defended the BJP’s commitment to empowering women and ensuring their active participation in politics.
4. Opportunities for Marginalized Groups: Kharge emphasized the need to provide opportunities for women from backward classes and Scheduled Castes, addressing concerns about equitable representation.
5. GST Controversy: The debate extended beyond the women’s reservation bill, with Kharge alleging that states were not receiving their rightful share of GST revenue. Sitharaman refuted this claim.
6. AAP’s Objection: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, also voiced its objection to the women’s reservation bill, labeling it as a political tactic ahead of the 2024 elections.
7. Bill Details: The bill, which offers women 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, is set to be implemented following a delimitation exercise.
8. Prime Minister’s Announcement: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the bill during his opening speech, highlighting it as a historic achievement in Indian politics.
9. New Parliament Building: The Indian parliament has made a significant shift to a new building on Delhi’s Central Vista, marking the end of an era.
10. Request for Written Statements: In the aftermath of the intense debate, Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has requested both leaders, Kharge and Sitharaman, to submit their statements in writing by the end of the day.

In conclusion, the Indian Parliament witnessed a fiery clash between Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, encompassing critical issues such as the women’s reservation bill and GST. While the bill aims to reshape women’s representation in politics, it has spurred intense discussions and disagreements among political leaders. As the parliament transitions to a new building, these debates will continue to shape the course of Indian politics and governance.