Monday, Rijiju sent a letter to Kharge that directly replied to the latter’s own missive to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding an all‑party meeting before the Constitution Amendment Bill is debated. In it, Rijiju underscored the government’s ongoing dialogue and called on the Congress to play a constructive role rather than blocking future legislation.
Rijiju explained that the 64 days since the House was adjourned sine die on 13 August 2026 do not trigger any constitutional requirement for prorogation. He cited historical precedents, noting that the Lok Sabha has sat unprorogued for up to 87 days in 2008, and that similar gaps of 76 days in 1987 and 54 days in 1989 have occurred without impropriety.
The minister listed the dates of his outreach: letters to Kharge on 16 March, 26 March, and 12 April, a personal meeting with Rahul Gandhi during the Monsoon Session, and consultations with parties such as the DMK, SP, YSRCP, NCP, Shiv Sena (UBT), AIMIM, and BJD. He stressed that repeated demands for a new meeting are unnecessary given the breadth of dialogue already pursued.
Rijiju closed the letter by reaffirming the government’s commitment to parliamentary democracy and effective dialogue. He warned that the opposition’s cooperation is now essential, as the bill’s vote is scheduled for the upcoming session. The response from the Congress remains to be seen.