Disgraceful Disruptions in Rajya Sabha
In a poignant address at the conclusion of the 264th session of the Rajya Sabha, Vice-President and Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed profound disappointment over recent disruptions in Parliament. He castigated the entry of Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge into the well of the House, deeming it a blatant violation of parliamentary propriety and a disgrace to the sanctity of the institution.
Undermining Democratic Values
Mr. Dhankhar’s admonitions were a stark reminder to the elders of their expected conduct. He underscored the importance of the Rajya Sabha as a temple of deliberation, discussion, dialogue, and debate. Such actions, he warned, not only undermine democratic values but also set a dangerous precedent that is antithetical to the principles of democracy.
Opposition Walkout: A Symbol of Discord
On July 3, 2024, the opposition, led by Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and MP Renuka Chowdhury, staged a walkout during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address. This act of dissent was met with Mr. Dhankhar’s unequivocal disappointment. He lamented that disruptions not only impede the transaction of listed business but also erode the prestige of this esteemed institution.
Active Participation Amidst Chaos
Despite the turmoil, Mr. Dhankhar acknowledged the active participation from both treasury and opposition benches. The session saw engagement from 76 members over 21 hours, including maiden speeches by 19 newly elected members. However, the disruptions, resulting in 43 minutes of forced adjournments, were a blemish on the otherwise productive session. The House compensated for the lost time by extending sittings beyond the scheduled duration and working through lunch breaks, ultimately achieving more than 100% productivity.
Call for Responsible Conduct
Mr. Dhankhar’s remarks served as a stern call for responsible conduct. He emphasized that seasoned members of Parliament should exemplify propriety and decorum, thereby upholding the dignity of the House. The disruptions witnessed during this session, he noted, were not only disheartening but also detrimental to the functioning of a democratic institution.
The Impact of Disruptions on Parliamentary Prestige
The Vice-President’s address highlighted a critical issue: the impact of disruptions on the prestige of the Rajya Sabha. He stressed that such actions impede the legislative process and diminish public trust in democratic institutions. By deviating from established norms of conduct, members risk eroding the very foundation of parliamentary democracy.
A Tribute to Positive Contributions
While lamenting the negative aspects, Mr. Dhankhar also took the opportunity to commend positive contributions. He thanked Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Leader of the House J.P. Nadda, and leaders of various parties for ensuring smooth proceedings when possible. This acknowledgment served as a reminder that, despite the disruptions, there remains a commitment to productive legislative work.
The Path Forward: Upholding Democratic Principles
In conclusion, Mr. Dhankhar’s address was a clarion call to all members of the Rajya Sabha to uphold democratic principles and parliamentary decorum. He urged them to turn the Rajya Sabha into a bastion of constructive debate and dialogue, setting an example for future generations. The recent disruptions, he reiterated, were a deviation from this ideal and must be addressed to preserve the integrity of the institution.
Summary:
| Key Learning Points |
|---|
| Vice-President Dhankhar condemns recent Rajya Sabha disruptions. |
| Entry of Leader of the Opposition into the well of the House termed a disgrace. |
| Emphasis on the Rajya Sabha as a place of deliberation, discussion, and debate. |
| Disruptions undermine democratic values and erode the prestige of the institution. |
| Despite disruptions, the session saw active participation and over 100% productivity. |
| Call for responsible conduct and upholding of parliamentary decorum. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
