Congress to Chair Key Parliamentary Committees Amid Formation Delays

The Congress party is poised to chair four key department-related standing committees in Parliament, including one of the top four. The formation of these committees has prompted discussions regarding delays, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju assuring that the panels will be constituted by the end of the month. The DMK and TMC are also set to chair committees, while the Samajwadi Party insists on a Rajya Sabha chairmanship.

The Congress, as the main opposition party in the Lok Sabha, is expected to chair four standing committees, including one of the top four, sources revealed on Monday.

The party aims for six chairmanships but discussions continue. The DMK may chair one panel in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and the TMC may get one chairmanship.

Meanwhile, the Samajwadi Party, with 37 Lok Sabha members, seeks a Rajya Sabha committee, potentially led by Ram Gopal Yadav.

Sources indicated Congress might chair three panels in the Lok Sabha and one in the Rajya Sabha, including a top four committee, but not the Home Committee, chaired by KC Venugopal of the key Public Accounts Committee.

Regarding committee delays, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju assured the press that formation is on track for end of September, rejecting accusations of delay.

He emphasized that the process follows standard practice and conventions, stating that parliamentary standing committees are usually constituted by mid- to end-September.

Rijiju highlighted that committee chairmanships are based on numerical strength, with the Congress being offered roles accordingly.

Department-related standing committees review Union ministries, budget allocations, and introduced bills, advising the government on legislative and policy matters.

(With inputs from agencies.)