Why Was Rahul Gandhi Retained in the Parliamentary Defence Committee While Kamal Haasan Makes His Debut?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Newly reconstituted Defence Committee blends experience and fresh viewpoints.
- Radha Mohan Singh appointed as Chairperson.
- Inclusion of Rahul Gandhi emphasizes bipartisan engagement.
- Kamal Haasan's debut marks a shift towards strategic policymaking.
- Committee tasked with reviewing defence budgets and procurement policies.
New Delhi, Oct 1 (NationPress) The recently restructured Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence, effective from September 26, showcases a vibrant blend of seasoned legislators and newcomers from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
Radha Mohan Singh, a veteran BJP leader, has been designated as the Chairperson of this committee, which holds a vital role in scrutinizing India’s defence strategies, military readiness, and strategic matters.
Among the notable members is Rahul Gandhi, a Congress leader whose appointment indicates a renewed emphasis on bipartisan collaboration in defence oversight.
Gandhi, a former Congress president and current Lok Sabha MP, has a history of involvement in various parliamentary committees, making his role on the Defence Committee particularly significant due to his outspoken views on national security and military welfare.
Another significant addition is Kamal Haasan, the acclaimed actor and politician, marking his entry into parliamentary committee work as a Rajya Sabha MP.
Haasan, the founder of the Makkal Needhi Maiam party, has consistently championed transparency, technological advancement, and citizen-focused governance.
His participation in the Defence Committee signifies a notable transition from cultural activism to strategic policymaking.
Renowned for his insightful perspectives and reformist passion, Haasan’s involvement is expected to bring new ideas to discussions on defence innovation and civil-military relations.
The committee consists of 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha.
Key Lok Sabha members include Karti P Chidambaram, Mahua Moitra, Ravi Kishan (Ravindra Shukla), Jagadish Shettar, and Thirumaavalavan Tholkappiyan. Notable Rajya Sabha members include Shaktisinh Gohil, Prem Chand Gupta, Muzibulla Khan, and Sudhanshu Trivedi.
The committee is tasked with reviewing defence budgets, procurement strategies, and strategic doctrines.
With a combination of experienced politicians and energetic newcomers, this panel is poised to play a crucial role in defining India’s defence priorities in the face of changing global conditions.
The inclusion of individuals like Rahul Gandhi and Kamal Haasan emphasizes Parliament’s commitment to promoting inclusive and informed discussions on national security, bridging political gaps, and leveraging diverse expertise to enhance India’s defence framework.