The 8th session of the 13th Tripura Legislative Assembly begins on September 19, chaired by Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul. Key bills, private member proposals, and PM Modi’s visit will shape the brief but significant legislative proceedings until September 23.
The 8th session of the 13th Tripura Legislative Assembly is set to commence on September 19 and will continue until September 23, 2025. The session will be chaired by Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul in place of Speaker Biswa Bandhu Sen, who is currently unwell.
The decision was finalized during a crucial Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting held on Monday at the Assembly’s conference hall. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Speaker Paul himself, and attended by representatives from all major political parties, including the Congress and Tipra Motha. Notably, Leader of the Opposition Jiten Choudhury was absent, though the CPI-M was represented by another party member.
Speaker’s Absence and Deputy Speaker’s Role
Addressing the media, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath confirmed that, as per procedural norms, the Deputy Speaker will preside over the entire session. Nath explained that the adjustment was necessary to ensure smooth functioning of the Assembly in the absence of the Speaker.
“Hon’ble Speaker Biswa Bandhu Sen is unwell, and therefore, in accordance with the rules of procedure, Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul will chair the proceedings,” Nath stated.
Festive Season and Prime Minister’s Visit to Affect Schedule
The Minister further clarified that the session will be brief due to Durga Puja festivities, which are Tripura’s most important cultural and religious celebrations. Additionally, the Assembly will remain adjourned on September 22, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the state on that day.
The business scheduled for September 22 will be carried forward to September 23, which will also mark the conclusion of the session. Nath emphasized that this rescheduling reflects the government’s effort to balance legislative priorities with cultural and national commitments.
Legislative Agenda: Four Bills to Be Tabled
A major highlight of the session will be the tabling of four key bills on the very first day. These include:
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Tripura State Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill
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Tripura Jan Biswas (Amendment) Regulations Bill
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The Factories (Second Amendment), 2025
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Tripura Shops and Establishment (Seventh Amendment) Bill
The opening day will feature a Question and Answer round, followed by the introduction of these bills. The final day of the session will include detailed discussions on the newly introduced legislation, in addition to another round of Q&A.
Private Member Proposals on Opening Day
Apart from government business, private members who succeeded in the ballot draw will also present their proposals. These include:
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MLA Dipak Majumdar
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MLA Rampada Jamatia
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A CPI-M representative who secured a ballot slot
These proposals will be taken up on the first day of the Assembly sitting, allowing legislators to raise important issues outside of government-sponsored business.
BAC’s Role and Minister’s Statement
Minister Ratan Lal Nath concluded the BAC meeting by presenting the streamlined schedule and legislative priorities. He stressed that while the session will be shorter than usual, the government is fully committed to ensuring that important legislative work is completed efficiently.
“This session has been planned keeping in mind the festive calendar and the Prime Minister’s visit. At the same time, we are ensuring that key bills and members’ proposals are taken up without delay,” Nath said.
Significance of the Session
The 8th session is expected to witness important debates, particularly around the economic and industrial reforms proposed through the amendment bills. The introduction of the GST Amendment and changes to Factories and Shops Acts indicate the government’s focus on strengthening business regulations while also addressing workers’ welfare.
Political observers believe that while the shortened duration may limit extensive discussions, the participation of diverse political voices—including Congress, Tipra Motha, and CPI-M—will ensure a vibrant exchange of perspectives.
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With the Deputy Speaker stepping in for the ailing Speaker and the legislative business condensed into four days, the session is being seen as a balancing act between governance, cultural traditions, and political responsibilities.
As Tripura prepares for Durga Puja celebrations and a high-profile visit by the Prime Minister, the Assembly session is poised to play a significant role in shaping legislative direction while reflecting the state’s unique blend of tradition and governance.
