Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar Warns Against Disruptions in Parliament
New Delhi [India], July 24: Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar expressed concern over the walkout by Opposition MPs during the Union Budget discussion, warning that such disruptions could threaten democracy if used as a political strategy.
Disruption as a Political Strategy
Dhankar addressed the members of the Rajya Sabha, stating, “Democracy will be seriously threatened if disruption and disturbance are weaponized as a political strategy as has been done now.” He noted that although he allowed Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge to speak, it was used as a ploy by the Opposition MPs.
Criticism of Mallikarjun Kharge
Following the walkout, Dhankar criticized Kharge’s actions, calling them an “unwholesome practice.” He emphasized that Parliament is a citadel of constitutional and democratic values and liberties, and there was no justification for the disruption during the budget discussion.
Suspension of Business Notices
Dhankar also spoke about the frequent use of Suspension of Business Notices under Rule 267, which he said should only be allowed in exceptional circumstances. He decided not to admit the notices filed that day, stating that they did not conform to the directives imparted by the Chair.
Doubts Revealed
Rajya Sabha -: Rajya Sabha is one of the two houses of the Parliament of India. It is also known as the Council of States.
Chairman -: The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is the person who presides over its meetings. The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Jagdeep Dhankar -: Jagdeep Dhankar is the current Vice President of India and, therefore, the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Opposition MPs -: Opposition MPs are Members of Parliament who belong to political parties that are not part of the ruling government.
Union Budget -: The Union Budget is the annual financial statement presented by the government, detailing its revenue and expenditure for the upcoming year.
Leader of Opposition -: The Leader of Opposition is the head of the largest party not in government in the Parliament. In this case, it is Mallikarjun Kharge.
Mallikarjun Kharge -: Mallikarjun Kharge is an Indian politician and the current Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha.
Suspension of Business Notices -: Suspension of Business Notices under Rule 267 are requests made by MPs to suspend the scheduled business of the house to discuss an urgent matter.
Rule 267 -: Rule 267 is a rule in the Rajya Sabha that allows MPs to request the suspension of the day’s agenda to discuss an important issue.
