Govt braces for stormy session on intolerance

Oppn may demand action against 'guilty' ministers

With government scheduling a debate on rising intolerance in the country, Lok Sabha is bracing for a stormy session on Monday while the Opposition may insist on discussing the issue in the Rajya Sabha.

Though the government has listed resumption of discussion on “commitment to The Constitution” in the Upper House, the Opposition has given notices to have a debate on ‘intolerance in the society’.

During the intolerance debate, the Opposition is expected to demand action against Union ministers accused of making provocative statements. The government prepared for the session with the prime minister’s announcement that it is planning a scheme to strengthen unity and harmony in the country.

"I spoke about 'Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat (One India, Great India)' on Sardar (Vallabhbhai) Patel's birth anniversary. I want to shape 'Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat' into a scheme.

My government is working on it," he said in his 14th 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address to the nation, before leaving for Paris to attend a world summit on climate change.
Modi asked people to send their suggestions on the scheme, assuring certificates and prizes for the best ideas.

“What will be the structure of the programme? How to increase people's participation? How to make 'Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat' scheme a binding force to unite every individual in this country. How can the government, civil society and society at large can play a role in this scheme? I want this to be a very specific scheme. I urge you to use your creative mind and send more suggestions,” he said.

The PM proposed 'Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat' initiative on the birth anniversary of Sardhar Patel  in October that would pair up different states to promote cultural and linguistic exchange.

"PM should have assured d (sic) country in his speech that there shall not be any communal violence which is on rise after NDA Govt (sic) came to power,” JD(U) president Sharad Yadav tweeted, reflecting the prevailing mood in the opposition camp ahead of the contentious session.