NEW DELHI, Nov 18: In the throes of its most serious political crisis so far, the United Front government may not be able to fulfill its ambitious agenda for the winter session of Parliament that begins tomorrow. The storm created by the Jain Commission's interim report on the events leading up to the death of Rajiv Gandhi could blow the Gujral government out of office at a time when several important bills - many of them essential to the economic reforms process - are slated to be passed in Parliament.

Seeking to fish in troubled waters, the BJP has decided to table a motion under Rule 184 (to force a vote) to ensure a discussion on the interim report and the government's follow-up action on it. Heavy legislative business awaits Parliament. Of the 29 bills proposed to be introduced, most relate to the Finance Ministry. Nine ordinances also have to be enacted into law. Besides, 15 pending bills (not passed last session mostly because of lack of consensus) have to be passed.

Top priority has been accorded to the Lok Pal Bill and an amendment to the Anti-Defection Law. A new bill to provide for confiscation of the proceeds of crime and to declare the act of money laundering to be a criminal offence will also be introduced in the coming session as is the Foreign Exchange Management Bill (to replace the antiquated FERA with a law in keeping with today's business environment).

The controversial Insurance Regulatory Authority Bill (to allow the private sector into the insurance sector), which could not be passed last session because of the opposition from the Left and BJP, is to be re-introduced. The US is particularly interested in the passage of the Bill.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.