Govt asks parties to contribute positively to monsoon session

As opposition gears up to corner the government over a host of issues, including Vyapam scam, and Lalit Modi controversy in the coming monsoon session, the Centre today hoped that all parties will contribute "positively" to the passage of crucial bills.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu said the government has convened a meeting on Monday, a day before the session starts with leaders of all the political parties of both the Houses of Parliament to discuss various issues.
"Parliament session is going to commence from July 21. As per the traditional practice, I have called a meeting of all the leaders of all political parties of both the Houses of Parliament on July 20 at 10 am to discuss issues, proposed bills and issues which others want to raise in Parliament.

"After discussing with them, we will finalise detailed schedule of the session. As of now, the session is supposed to commence on July 21 and go on upto August 13...I hope that all polital parties will take advantage of the session and try to highlight the important issues of public interest and also contribute positively to the passage of important bills which are aimed at development and welfare of people," Naidu told reporters here.
Hours after Naidu holds the meeting, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumita Mahajan will also hold an all-party meeting during which government will express its readiness to discuss any matter raised by the Opposition.

Naidu expressed disappointment over reports that political parties planning to obstruct the session, and requested them to make "positive" contributions.
"I was little upset over reports that some parties want to obstruct the session. I hope they won't. The session is there to discuss, debate and decide. I request all political parties to make positive contributions in the coming session of Parliament.
"Whatever they (parties) want to speak or highlight, they have every right to do it as per the rules and government will be willing to discuss all the issues," he said.