With the Budget session only a few days away, the Left is busy stocking its arsenal to take on the BJP for the functioning of the previous government. It hopes, the Opposition will allow enough room for ‘‘proper debate’’ during the session, beginning July 5. ‘‘The Speaker is already trying to restore some sense in the functioning of the Lok Sabha. There should be proper debate on the budget that would go to restore the sanctity of Parliament,’’ says CPI(M) MP Nilotpal Basu. As for the issue of ‘‘tainted’’ ministers, which the BJP plans to rake up in the House again, the Left strategy would be to turn the tables on them, he adds. ‘‘There is no legal or Constitutional provision to bar chargesheeted persons from holding ministerial positions. It is a moral issue and it is the BJP that created the precedent of appointing chargesheeted ministers. This, includes the (former) DPM’s case,’’ Basu says. Apart from charging at the BJP, the Left is also expected to draw the government’s attention to what it calls ‘‘course correction’’ — in which will figure issues like detoxification of education, appointment of governors and labour and economic policies. The Women’s Reservation Bill will also be part of the agenda. Sources say, the Left parties have sought an appointment with the PM for a discussion on more contentious issues. The issue of privatisation of airports will top their agenda in that meeting.
