Modi assures discussion on important issues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday reached out to the opposition and said the government will try and ensure that all important issues are discussed in the budget session of parliament.

The opposition Congress, while assuring it would play a "constructive" role during the session, also warned the government that the support should not be taken for granted.

The prime minister, shortly before the commencement of the session, said: "I had a meeting with the leaders of allies yesterday (Sunday) and listened to their views. We will try that every important issue in the budget session is discussed."

Modi said the budget session was an important opportunity for every government as well as for the country.

"This session is an important occasion for the government and the country as the expectations and aspirations of the common man are reflected in the budget. I am sure the session will be held in a spirit of cooperation and cordiality," he said.

The budget session is crucial for the government as half a dozen ordinances are lined up to be replaced by relevant laws.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu had organised an all-party meeting ahead of the budget session Sunday. The meeting was also attended by Modi, who had appealed for smooth functioning of the house.

Naidu had also met Congress president Sonia Gandhi and sought her cooperation in ensuring smooth running of parliament.

Talking to reporters outside parliament Monday, Naidu assured that the content of every ordinance will be discussed on the floor of the house.

He also defended the land acquisition bill, saying it was not anti-farmer.

"There is no anti-farmer provision in the land acquisition bill. The opposition should not politicise the matter," he said.

The Congress, while assuring a constructive approach, warned the government that it should not take the support for granted.

"We hope the budget session is most productive and we will give constructive support but don't take us for granted. There are issues close to our heart and if there is a slightest assault on our ideals, we will oppose," said Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

He made it clear that the Congress will not support the changed land acquisition bill the government is prepared to bring.