Chandigarh (Punjab): The Punjab Assembly is set to kick off a two-day session, called upon by the Bhagwant Mann-led cabinet, commencing on Tuesday.
Scheduled to begin at 2 pm on the inaugural day, the session will encompass various parliamentary activities, including the question hour, attention motions, and the introduction of two crucial bills.
Among these proposed bills is the Punjab Goods and Services Tax Amendment Bill 2023, aimed at establishing a GST Tribunal within the state's jurisdiction. Additionally, the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Bill 2023 is on the docket, altering the government's loan limits to align with those set by the central government, eliminating the need for separate bills for loan cap adjustments.
Following the customary homage to departed leaders, the House proceedings will adjourn briefly during the session's kickoff in the afternoon.
Previously, the state government had autonomy to borrow up to 3.5 percent of its GSDP. However, a senior official from the Finance Department highlighted that this limit will now be tethered to the central government's decision, obviating the necessity for individual bills each time.
On the second day, slated for November 29, additional bills are anticipated to be presented. This includes The Indian Stamp Amendment Bill 2023, granting the government authority to levy stamp duty on loans secured by mortgaging assets, an action presently not practiced by banks. Another bill, the Transfer of Property (Punjab Amendment) Bill 2023, is also on the agenda for introduction.
The previous session had been deemed unlawful by Punjab Governor Banwari Lal Purohit, leading the Punjab Government to appeal to the Supreme Court. Subsequently, the government acknowledged the Supreme Court's decision in favor of the state and called for this special session.
During this forthcoming session, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann might readdress the Punjab Governor, continuing a discourse that has been a point of contention between the two entities.
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