Special Sessions of Parliament
Constitutional and Procedural Framework
The Indian Constitution under Article 85 empowers the President to summon each House of Parliament. No constitutional definition of a "special session" exists; however, the President can summon Parliament at any time outside the three conventional sessions (Budget, Monsoon, Winter). Such special sittings are convened for extraordinary legislative business or to mark significant national occasions.
- The gap between two consecutive parliamentary sessions cannot exceed six months (Article 85).
- Parliament has three recognised sessions: Budget (February–May), Monsoon (July–August), and Winter (November–December).
- Special sessions have been convened historically during national emergencies (1971 India-Pakistan war), constitutional milestones (75th Independence anniversary), and for focused legislative agendas.
- Prorogation under Article 85(2)(a) ends a session; all pending notices and motions lapse on prorogation, but bills do not lapse.
- The September 2023 special session (18–22 September) saw Parliament shift proceedings to the new Parliament building and passed the Women's Reservation Bill.
● Tracked since March 25, 2026 · last seen April 16, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
16 Apr '26
Parliament's Stormy Special Session: The Delimitation Flashpoint Explained
Polity & Governance
13 Apr '26
Congress Three-Line Whip for Special Parliament Session on Women's Reservation
Polity & Governance
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