Sonia Gandhi to Lead Congress Strategy Meet Ahead of Stormy Monsoon Session in Parliament

New Delhi, July 13, 2025 — Congress Parliamentary Party leader Sonia Gandhi will chair a crucial strategy meeting on Tuesday to chalk out the party’s approach for the upcoming Monsoon session of Parliament, as the opposition gears up for potential clashes with the government over a host of sensitive issues.

The session, now scheduled from July 21 to August 21, has been extended by a week beyond its original timeline, signaling the government’s intent to push through significant legislative business. Among the key items on the government’s agenda is legislation to pave the way for private sector participation in India’s nuclear energy sector, through amendments to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act and the Atomic Energy Act.

However, opposition parties, led by the Congress, are preparing to challenge the government aggressively on several fronts. One key issue expected to dominate proceedings is the Election Commission’s decision to carry out a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar—a move the opposition alleges could have political motivations.

The Congress is also demanding detailed discussions on national security concerns, particularly the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22 and the subsequent Operation Sindoor, India’s military strike on terror targets inside Pakistan. Party leaders insist that Parliament must debate the circumstances and consequences of the operation, citing public interest and transparency.

Adding to the political churn, the opposition plans to question the government over U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial claim that he mediated between India and Pakistan to prevent a nuclear conflict. While the Indian government has categorically denied any acceptance of third-party mediation, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly reiterating India’s long-standing policy during a phone call with Trump last month, opposition parties want further clarification in Parliament.

Party sources said Tuesday’s strategy meeting at Sonia Gandhi’s 10, Janpath residence will be attended by key leaders, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. The gathering is expected to finalise floor tactics, coordination with other opposition parties, and plans for raising priority issues during debates.

With the Monsoon session set to handle both legislative ambitions and politically charged debates, Parliament appears headed for a turbulent few weeks, reflecting the broader fault lines in India’s contemporary political landscape.