New Delhi: The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha is set to commence on Monday, marking the official beginning of India's lower house of Parliament following the general elections held from April to June. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with his Council of Ministers, will take their oaths starting at 11 am. This session holds significant importance as it sets the stage for legislative proceedings in the new term.

The appointment of Bhartruhari Mahtab, a seven-term BJP member, as the pro tem Speaker has stirred controversy. Opposition parties, notably Congress, have voiced criticism, arguing that their candidate, Kodikunnil Suresh, was disregarded despite being eligible. The pro tem Speaker plays a crucial role in overseeing the House until the election of a permanent Speaker on June 26.

President Droupadi Murmu will administer the oath to Bhartruhari Mahtab at Rashtrapati Bhawan before he assumes his role as the pro tem Speaker in Parliament. This marks the formal start of parliamentary proceedings, with a moment of silence observed to honor the occasion. President Murmu will address a joint sitting of both Houses on June 27, outlining the government's agenda for the session.

On Monday, 280 newly-elected MPs will take oath alongside PM Modi and his Council of Ministers. The following day, 264 parliamentarians will also take their oaths. The election for the post of Lok Sabha Speaker is scheduled for June 26, after which PM Modi will introduce his Council of Ministers to the House.

Following this initial phase, Parliament will go into a brief recess and reconvene on July 22 for the presentation of the Union Budget. Before the recess, the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address will commence on June 28, with PM Modi expected to respond by July 2 or 3. This legislative session is pivotal for setting the agenda and addressing critical national issues in the new parliamentary term.

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