The government and the Opposition made fresh efforts to break the ongoing Parliament deadlock after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju held a nearly 50-minute meeting with Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also attended the meeting, which took place in Rahul Gandhi's chamber inside the Parliament complex.

Opposition Wants Statement, Not Resignation

According to sources, Rahul Gandhi clarified during the meeting that the Opposition is not demanding the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Instead, the Opposition wants Shah to make a statement in Parliament regarding the issue that has led to the current impasse, particularly allegations surrounding the use of excessive force against student protesters during the recent paper leak agitation.

The Opposition believes that a statement from the Home Minister could help move proceedings forward.

Read more: BJP Rejects Congress Allegations Against Amit Shah Over FCRA Bill

Government Holds Consultation Meetings

Following the discussion, Kiren Rijiju described the interaction as a courtesy meeting and expressed optimism that Parliament could resume normal functioning soon.

Sources said Rijiju later briefed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on the discussions before meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah to convey the Opposition's position.

Delimitation and FCRA Bills Also Discussed

During the meeting, Rijiju is also reported to have sought Rahul Gandhi's views on several important legislative proposals, including:

• The proposed Delimitation Bill.
• Amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).

The discussions are seen as part of the government's efforts to understand the Congress party's position on pending legislation and reduce political tensions.

Government Continues Outreach

Sources said the government plans to continue consultations with other Opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party, in an attempt to build consensus.

The Centre is expected to review the outcome of these discussions before deciding its next steps, while hoping that Parliament can return to normal functioning in the coming days.