In a significant session on July 18, 2023, the Student Parliament of Shaheen Degree College and IAS Academy gathered to discuss and vote on the “Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021.” The bill, aimed at combating child marriage, became the focal point of a simulated legislative process, featuring key participants such as Prime Minister Aqsa Fatima, Home Minister Tahulath Begum, Law Minister Amreen, and Leader of the Opposition Taiseen Fathima.
Prime Minister Aqsa Fatima opened the session with an emphasis on the urgency of protecting children’s rights. Home Minister Tahulath Begum presented compelling arguments in favor of the bill, supported by statistical data and real-life examples highlighting the detrimental effects of child marriage. Law Minister Amreen addressed the legal aspects and implications of the proposed amendments.
Leader of the Opposition Taiseen Fathima raised concerns about potential unintended consequences and questioned the government’s ability to implement the amendments effectively. Following a thoughtful debate, the student parliament voted on the bill, resulting in a narrow margin of 49 votes in favor (Ayes) and 47 votes against (Noes).
Similarly, in another session among the boys’ section, the students debated the “Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023.” Prime Minister Yasir Arafat, Home Minister Motiur Rahman, Law Minister Sajid Hasan, and Leader of the Opposition Sayed Saif, along with Opposition Members of Parliament Javed Akhtar and Tauseef, discussed governance structure issues in Delhi.
Prime Minister Yasir Arafat stressed the necessity of proposed amendments for effective administration, and Home Minister Motiur Rahman highlighted the importance of streamlining decision-making processes. The session resulted in a narrow rejection of the bill, with 32 votes in favor (Ayes) and 34 votes against (Noes), reflecting the diverse opinions and complexities of the issue.
Both sessions played a pivotal role in addressing social issues through legislative simulations, showcasing the commitment of the student parliament to democratic principles and fostering critical thinking among participants
