New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The Lok Sabha is set to take up an extensive discussion on the Union Budget for 2026–27 starting February 9, days after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents the budget on February 1. The debate in the lower House will span three days, continuing on February 10 and February 11.
As per the schedule approved by the Lok Sabha’s Business Advisory Committee, 18 hours have been earmarked for the Budget discussion. The time allocation is intended to allow members to closely scrutinise key fiscal proposals, spending plans and revenue-related measures outlined for the upcoming financial year.
Prior to the Budget debate, the Lok Sabha will deliberate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address. This discussion is scheduled for February 2, 3 and 4, with another 18 hours allotted for members to speak on President Droupadi Murmu’s address delivered at the beginning of the Budget session. The President had addressed a joint sitting of both Houses on the opening day of the session.
The finalisation of the schedule comes amid heightened political tensions between the government and the Opposition. At an all-party meeting held on January 27, Opposition parties sought a discussion on the special intensive revision of electoral rolls and demanded the repeal of the G RAM G law. The Centre, however, rejected both demands, stating that the legislation had been passed by Parliament and could not be rolled back.
Regarding electoral roll revision, the government maintained that the issue had already been debated during the winter session and noted that the revision process was ongoing in multiple states.
These disagreements later played out in Parliament during the President’s address on January 28, when Opposition members raised slogans over the two contentious issues. The Bharatiya Janata Party criticized the disruptions, accusing the Opposition of showing disrespect during a constitutional address.
