New Delhi: All MPs from the Opposition INDIA bloc have entered the Lok Sabha together at the commencement of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha. The leaders gathered at the location where the statue of Mahatma Gandhi was placed earlier, carrying a copy of the Constitution as a symbolic gesture of unity.

The Congress MPs also convened at the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) office in Parliament House earlier today.

The first session, which began today, will witness the oath-taking ceremony of newly-elected Members of Parliament. PM Narendra Modi and other prominent cabinet ministers have already taken their oath. A "Swagatam" cutout has been placed at the Parliament Makar Dwar to welcome the newly elected MPs.

Expectations for the first session are high, with the opposition planning to confront the BJP-led NDA government on various issues, including the election of the Speaker, allegations of paper leaks in NEET-UG and UGC-NET, and the appointment of the pro-tem Speaker.

President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath to Bharatiya Janata Party lMP Bhartruhari Mahtab as the pro-tem Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Mahtab will oversee the oath-taking of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Leader of the Lok Sabha, and other members of the House.

The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha will continue until July 3 for the oath/affirmation of newly elected Members. The 264th Session of the Rajya Sabha will commence on June 27 and conclude on July 3.

 

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Mullanpur, Apr 5 (PTI): Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal smashed a fine half-century and shared an 89-run stand with skipper Sanju Samson as Rajasthan Royals posted a steep 205 for 4 against Punjab Kings here on Saturday.

Jaiswal scored a 45-ball 67 studded with three boundaries and five sixes, while Samson hit a 26-ball 38. Riyan Parag then scored an unbeaten 43.

New Zealand quick Lockie Ferguson (2/37) was the most successful PBKS bowler getting rid of both Jaiswal and Samson, who returned to lead RR in place of Riyan Parag in this match.

Earlier, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl.

Brief scores:

Rajasthan Royals 205 for 4 in 20 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 67, Sanju Samson 38, Riyan Parag 43 not out; Lockie Ferguson 2/37).