A New India
Chapter 246 - 246: Bill Passed

The next morning, the Parliament Hall was quieter than the day before.

The debate on the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act had carried over into a second day, with most of the major concerns already discussed.

As members trickled into the chamber, it was clear that the mood had shifted.

The arguments of the previous day had laid a foundation for consensus.

Prime Minister Rohan entered the chamber alongside Education Minister Mira Chaudhary, exchanging brief greetings with members from both sides of the aisle.

The Speaker, Ram Prakash, struck his gavel to bring the house to order.

"The debate on the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act continues," the Speaker announced. "Honorable Members, you may now share your concluding remarks before we move forward."

Rohan rose first, stepping to the podium with measured calm. "Mr. Speaker, esteemed members of this house, yesterday we engaged in a robust and meaningful debate. Concerns were raised, challenges were acknowledged, and solutions were discussed. Today, I believe we stand at a crossroads. This bill is not just a legal framework, it is a moral commitment to our children. Its success will not be judged by words spoken here but by the lives it changes across our nation."

He paused, scanning the room for effect. "However, I understand the concerns raised about implementation and accountability. This house deserves transparency, and the people deserve results. To that end, I am open to suggestions on how we can ensure regular oversight and course correction."

The Leader of the Opposition, Govind Ram Shastri, rose, his expression thoughtful yet composed. "Mr. Speaker, while I must commend the Prime Minister and the Education Minister for their dedication to this cause, I would like to reiterate the importance of transparency. A reform of this magnitude cannot succeed without regular oversight and reporting. To that end, I propose an amendment, not to the bill itself but to its implementation framework. Let this government commit to submitting a monthly report to this Parliament, detailing the progress made under this act. These reports should include metrics such as the number of schools built, teachers recruited, enrollment figures, and any challenges encountered."

The chamber filled with murmurs of approval as Shastri returned to his seat.

Rohan nodded thoughtfully before addressing the Speaker. "Mr. Speaker, I thank the Honorable Leader of the Opposition for his constructive suggestion. Transparency is indeed the cornerstone of democracy, and I see no reason why this government should not provide regular updates to this house. A monthly report will ensure that we remain accountable not only to Parliament but also to the people."

Even members who had voiced skepticism now appeared reassured.

Balaji Deshmukh, who had been critical of the act's funding mechanisms, stood next. "Mr. Speaker, while I had my reservations about this bill, I must admit the government has addressed them with clarity and sincerity. This act has the potential to transform our nation, and I am prepared to support it wholeheartedly. However, I urge the government to consider regional disparities in its implementation. Some states will require more resources than others, this must be reflected in the monthly reports."

Mira Chaudhary, seated beside Rohan, rose to address the concern.

Her voice was steady, her resolve clear. "Mr. Speaker, the Honorable Member raises a valid point. Regional disparities cannot be ignored. That is why this act includes provisions for state-specific support. The monthly reports will highlight areas of concern, and the central government will allocate resources accordingly. Education is a shared responsibility, and this government is committed to equity in its delivery."

Karim nodded thoughtfully and spoke. "What about parents, Prime Minister? This act makes education compulsory, but some communities may resist due to cultural or economic reasons. How do we bring them onboard?"

Rohan's tone was measured but firm. "Mr. Speaker, education is not just a right; it is a duty. Parents have a responsibility to ensure their children attend school. However, we recognize the challenges they face. That is why this act eliminates financial barriers by providing free textbooks, uniforms, and midday meals. Community engagement will also be key. Local leaders and educators will play a pivotal role in building trust and overcoming resistance."

As the debate wound down, member after member stood to voice their support.

Some expressed concerns about logistics, others about cultural sensitivities, but all agreed on the necessity of the act.

By midday, it was clear that the house was united.

The Speaker struck his gavel once more. "Honorable Members, the time has come to vote on the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act. All those in favor, say 'Yes.'"

A resounding chorus of "Yes" echoed through the chamber.

"All those against?"

Silence.

The Speaker continued, "All those abstaining?"

More silence.

The clerk tallied the votes, and the Speaker announced the results. "The motion is carried with unanimous support zero against, zero abstentions, and one hundred percent in favor. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act is passed."

The chamber erupted into applause, a rare moment of unity in the often-contentious world of politics.

Rohan stood, acknowledging the house with a nod of gratitude before addressing the Speaker.

"Mr. Speaker, this day will be remembered as a turning point in our nation's history. I thank every member of this house for their trust, their wisdom, and their commitment to our children's future. This is not a victory for any party, it is a victory for India."

As the session adjourned, members from across the aisle approached Rohan to congratulate him.

Mira stood nearby, her expression a mix of relief and pride.

Shastri shook Rohan's hand firmly.

"You've done something remarkable today," Shastri said. "I don't agree with you on everything, but on this, you have my full support."

Rohan smiled. "Thank you, Shastri-ji. This isn't about me, it's about the millions of children who will finally get the education they deserve."

For Rohan, Mira, and the government, this was only the first step in a long journey toward transforming India's education system.