BJP leaders during BJP Parliamentary Executive Committee meeting at PMO in New Delhi. (PTI Photo)
On the eve of Parliament's 21-day Monsoon Session, the ruling NDA unanimously decided not to turn down the Opposition's demands for the resignation of the four top BJP leaders who are beleaguered by scandals. The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also met the leaders of all parties earlier on Monday.
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All members of the ruling alliance agreed to support the government's stand on the Lalit Modi controversy and the Vyapam scam, sources said.
PM Modi also consulted allies on the land bill, which had been opposed by partners like Lok Janshakti Party, Shiv Sena and the Shiromani Akali Dal. Sources said he blamed the Opposition's "misinformation campaign" for the perception that the government is anti-farmer.
At the all-party meeting, the Prime Minister sought the cooperation of the Opposition parties for smooth functioning of Parliament. "The government is ready to discuss all issues," he said.
A united Opposition has demanded an investigation against Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhra Raje for extending favours to tainted cricket tycoon Lalit Modi, who lives in the UK.
The Opposition has asked for discussions in Parliament on "all scams and charges" involving BJP leaders. The Congress has said it will disrupt Parliament unless the ministers resign.
"There is no question of accepting an ultimatum from anybody; nobody can dictate (terms) to Parliament," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu had said in response to the Congress demand.
Several key legislations are pending in Parliament, including the Goods and Services Tax bill, which have to be passed in the Upper House, Rajya Sabha, where the ruling NDA lacks majority.
At the meeting on Monday, the PM said the new land bill that changes how farmland should be acquired for development must "move forward."
That is unlikely in this session. A parliamentary committee studying the controversial proposal has asked for more time to submit its report.
Sources say the government is likely to use a fourth consecutive executive order or ordinance to enact the new rules. But to become permanent, they must be cleared by Parliament. The government does not want a stand-off with the Opposition over the land bill to delay other important pending reforms.
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