Amid unprecedented security Budget Session of Uttar Pradesh legislature would begin from February 18 which is expected to continue for over a month. This being the first session of the year, it will begin with the joint session of the two legislative House addressed by Governor Ram Naik. In his speech Governor is expected to highlight the achievements of the government and throw light on the future projects of the government.
Principal Secretary, Vidhan Sabha secretariat Pradeep Dubey said that the budget session that will start from February 18 will continue till March 27. The state budget will be tabled by UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav who happens to be the Finance Minister of the state as well on February 24. As per the tentative schedule three days have been earmarked for debate on Governor’s address. Discussion on state budget would be for eight days and then departmental budget would be passed after detailed discussions, Dubey said.
A long break is expected during holi festival during first week of March. “There can be break for almost one week when no sitting will take place,” an official said. Six bills are likely to be introduced in the Budget session. Government will also introduce amendments in UP Gnagsters’ Act, 1954 bringing crimes like human trafficking and bonded labour under this act. Government has recently issued an Ordinance regarding this which was promulgated by Governor.
Meanwhile, the UP government has made special security arrangement during the budget session of the state legislature. Teams from state Police, PAC, STF and ATS would be deployed around the Vidhan Bhawan. There would be three tier security for the Vidhan Bhavan and no unauthorised person would be allowed to enter the premises. Security guards of legislators, carrying weapons, will not be allowed entry into the legislative building.
On Monday, a special drill was carried out when the watch and ward staff of the state legislature was educated about metal detectors and how to prevent anyone from taking sharp blades or knife inside the Vidhan Bhawan.