SIR Stalemate to End: Lok Sabha to Discuss Electoral Reforms on Dec 9, Says Union Minister

New Delhi: The deadlock in Parliament over demands for a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise — which led to the washout of proceedings for two consecutive days — is set to end, with the government and Opposition reaching a truce on Tuesday. The agreement clears the way for a detailed debate in the Lok Sabha on electoral reforms.

As per the consensus reached at the all-party meeting, the Lok Sabha will hold two major discussions:

150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’ on December 8, and

Electoral reforms on December 9.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed the schedule on X, noting that both discussions will begin at 12 noon on their respective days.

The standoff between Opposition members and the treasury benches had intensified over the SIR voter verification drive, which the Opposition claims is disenfranchising marginalised groups across several states. The government, however, insisted that the House first dedicate time to commemorate Vande Mataram before taking up SIR-related issues.

At the all-party meeting, members agreed that December 8 would be devoted to the historic 150-year milestone of the national song, with a 10-hour session, extendable with the consent of the House.

Since the start of the Winter Session, Parliament has faced repeated disruptions, adjournments, and loud protests, with the Opposition demanding an immediate debate on what they describe as a rushed and controversial voter verification process currently underway in 12 states and Union Territories.

Earlier in the day, the Lok Sabha experienced intense sloganeering, while the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha submitted a notice under Rule 267 seeking a special discussion on voter revision. Responding to the tensions, Kiren Rijiju appealed for flexibility from all members and expressed hope that the all-party meeting would help break the deadlock — which it eventually did.

With inputs from IANS