“Agreement and disagreement are a natural process of democracy, but our collective effort should be that the House runs with dignity, decorum and decency,” says Birla
In his valedictory address Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that the House worked only for 37 hours though it was decided in the beginning of the Monsoon session that 120 hours of discussion and dialogue will take place.
“In this session, 419 starred questions were included in the agenda, but due to continuous planned disruptions, only 55 questions could be taken up for oral answer. We had all decided at the beginning of the session that we would have 120 hours of discussion and dialogue. The Business Advisory Committee also agreed to this. But due to continuous deadlock and planned disruptions, we could barely work for 37 hours in this session,” Birla said
He also lamented that “sloganeering, displaying placards, and planned deadlock” in the House hurts Parliamentary decorum and language and conduct seen during the Monsoon session that ended today were “not in accordance with the dignity of Parliament”.
Speaking at the conclusion of the fifth session of the 18th Lok Sabha, Birla said people had great expectations that there will be serious and meaningful discussions on their problems and issues of wider public interest, on important bills, in accordance with the decorum of Parliament.
“It is the responsibility of all of us to cooperate in building healthy traditions in the House. In this dignified House, we should avoid sloganeering and disruption and take forward serious and meaningful discussions. As Members of Parliament, we should set an example before the country and the world through our work and behaviour. Our language in the House and the Parliament premises should always be restrained and decent.”
“Agreement and disagreement are a natural process of democracy, but our collective effort should be that the House runs with dignity, decorum and decency,” he said, adding that members need to think about the message they are sending to the citizens through the country’s highest democratic institution.
“I am sure that all the political parties and honourable members will seriously think and introspect on this issue,” he added.
