Govt takes suggestions of parties seriously: PM at pre-budget session meet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Budget Session of Parliament from Monday was "very important" and that the government takes suggestions given by all political parties "very seriously."

Modi was speaking at a meeting of leaders of various political parties ahead of the Parliament session, convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar.

Talking to reporters later, Kumar said the meeting was "fruitful" and discussions were held in a cordial atmosphere.

Kumar quoted the Prime Minister as saying that the "session is very important" and "the government takes suggestions from all political parties very seriously."

Modi told the meeting that Parliament's Standing Committees, which work in a non-partisan manner to analyse bills, can be used as a model for creating similar committees in state Assemblies.

The Prime Minister said the Standing Committees work away from the media glare and members give their views without political bias, with only national interest in mind.

Kumar said the government was hopeful that the Triple Talaq Bill will be passed in the Budget Session. The bill has not been passed in the Rajya Sabha where the government lacks a majority.

Asked about the issues raised by the opposition, he said members indicated their intention to raise several issues, including those concerning farmers, jobs and economy.