The third session of the thirteenth parliament is scheduled to begin at 3pm on Thursday. Although expected to be brief, the session may see debate over electricity, gas and fertiliser shortages, worsening law and order, relations with a neighbouring country and rising prices of essential goods. The advisory committee will meet at 2pm before the sitting to determine the session’s duration, agenda, bills, questions and other matters.

The National Human Rights Commission Bill, the Prevention and Remedy of Enforced Disappearance Bill and an amendment to the Property Transfer Act have been submitted to the parliamentary secretariat. A Bank Resolution amendment and the Special Response Battalion Bill, intended to create a new specialised police force after abolishing RAB, may also be submitted soon. Sources said several bills could be passed during this session.

The session may run for 11 working days, according to parliamentary secretariat sources. Of 50 parliamentary committees, only 15 have been formed, leaving 35 to be completed in this session. Police have banned gatherings, marches, protests and the carrying of weapons, explosives and harmful materials around the parliament complex and surrounding areas from midnight Wednesday.