A New India
Chapter 245 - 245: Parliament Session

The Parliament Hall was full with anticipation.

A special session had been convened, and Prime Minister Rohan stood ready to introduce a bill that could reshape India's future.

The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act was ambitious, historic, and controversial.

The chamber was packed, with every seat occupied by Members of Parliament.

The Speaker, Ram Prakash, struck his gavel. "Honorable Members, we are gathered today for a critical session to deliberate on the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act. I now call upon the Honorable Prime Minister to introduce the bill."

Rohan rose from his seat, his demeanor composed but resolute.

Adjusting his coat, he walked to the podium.

The room grew silent as every eye fixed on him.

"Mr. Speaker, esteemed members of this house," Rohan began, his voice steady, "today we gather not as representatives of political parties but as custodians of our nation's future. I rise to present the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, a bill that seeks to enshrine the right to education as a fundamental right, ensuring that every child in India, regardless of their circumstances, has access to free and compulsory education."

He paused, scanning the room. "This bill is not merely a policy proposal. It requires a constitutional amendment. Currently, Article 45 of the Directive Principles of State Policy urges the state to provide free and compulsory education to children under fourteen. However, as you know, the Directive Principles are non-enforceable. This act seeks to amend the Constitution by introducing Article 21A, making education a fundamental right enforceable by law."

Murmurs broke out in the chamber.

Rohan continued, addressing the growing whispers. "The legality of this act is paramount. By amending the Constitution, we elevate education from a directive to a binding obligation. This is not an overreach it is an extension of our commitment to justice, equity, and opportunity for all."

The Leader of the Opposition, Govind Ram Shastri, stood, his expression thoughtful. "Mr. Speaker, while I commend the Prime Minister for his vision, I must raise concerns about the legal implications of this proposal. Education, as we all know, is on the Concurrent List. By making it a fundamental right, are we not encroaching upon the states' powers?"

Rohan turned to face him, his tone measured. "Mr. Shastri, that is a valid concern, but let me assure you this act does not undermine state autonomy. The Concurrent List allows both the center and the states to legislate on education. This amendment creates a framework states will retain their powers to implement and adapt the act to their local contexts. The center's role will be to provide funding and oversight, ensuring uniformity in access and quality."

Shastri nodded but did not sit. "Prime Minister, what about the Directive Principles? Critics may argue that elevating one principle to the status of a fundamental right sets a precedent for other directives to demand similar treatment. How do we address this?"

Rohan smiled faintly. "That argument has been anticipated, Mr. Shastri. Education is unique. It is the foundation of all other rights. Without education, how can citizens exercise their political, economic, or social rights effectively? By making education a fundamental right, we strengthen our democracy and empower our people."

Shastri returned to his seat, visibly impressed, though still pensive.

The Speaker called on Abdul Karim, a senior MP from Uttar Pradesh.

"Mr. Speaker," Karim began, "I support the intent behind this bill, but we must also discuss its enforceability. The courts will now have the power to intervene if this right is violated. Do we have the institutional capacity to handle this? How do we ensure the judiciary is not overwhelmed by litigation?"

Mira Chaudhary, the Education Minister, rose to address the concern. "Mr. Speaker, the Honorable Member raises an important point. The act includes mechanisms for redressal at the local level. Grievances will first be addressed by district education officers and state boards before escalating to the courts. This layered approach ensures that judicial intervention remains a last resort."

Karim nodded, seemingly satisfied.

Vishal Nair, an independent MP, stood next. "Mr. Speaker, I support the legality of this bill, but I urge the house to consider its implementation. Constitutional guarantees mean little without practical measures. What steps are being taken to ensure that this right is more than just words on paper?"

Rohan leaned forward, tapping his microphone. "Mr. Speaker, this brings me to the implementation framework. The act mandates universal access to education. Within three years, schools will be established within a one-kilometer radius of every habitation. Teachers will be recruited and trained on a massive scale. Midday meals, textbooks, and uniforms will be provided free of cost. This is not just a promise, it is a detailed plan backed by financial and administrative commitments."

Balaji Deshmukh, a fiery MP known for his critical stance, rose with a smirk. "Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister speaks of a plan, but plans require money. Where will this funding come from? Are we not already stretched thin with existing programs?"

Rohan met his gaze without hesitation. "Mr. Speaker, the cost of inaction is far greater than the cost of this act. Education is an investment, not an expense. We will allocate a significant portion of the central budget to this initiative. Additionally, international bodies like UNESCO and UNICEF have expressed willingness to support this effort. Public-private partnerships will also play a role."

Deshmukh raised an eyebrow but remained silent as Rohan continued. "Let us not forget the economic returns of an educated population. Studies show that every additional year of schooling increases an individual's income potential by 10-15%. The ripple effect on national productivity and GDP will more than offset the initial costs."

As the debate continued, members from across the political spectrum started speaking.

Some raised concerns about cultural barriers, others about infrastructure gaps.

Yet, the overall tone was positive.

Mira stood again, her voice firm. "Mr. Speaker, this act is not about immediate perfection, it is about long-term progress. No reform is without challenges, but the alternative is stagnation. Education is the great equalizer, the key to breaking cycles of poverty and inequality. This house has the opportunity to make history."

As the session wound down, the Speaker struck his gavel. "Honorable Members, the discussion will continue tomorrow. I thank you all for your constructive contributions."

Rohan remained seated as the members filed out.

Mira turned to him, her face a mix of determination and fatigue. "They're hesitant, but they're listening. We have a chance."

Rohan nodded. "We do, Mira and tommorow we pass it".