Even as there was no clarity on how to handle the issue of automatic expulsion or suspension of members entering the Well of the House, most of the Speakers at the Presiding Officers’ conference agreed that serious thought should be given to taking “some strict action.”
Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the issue of automatic expulsion or suspension could be taken up at the next meeting.
Though the subject was not on the agenda of the two-day conference, which concluded here on Sunday, it was raised by some participants.
Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, in his valedictory speech, expressed concern at the disruption of proceedings. He said the Assembly Speakers and the Council Chairmen could play a vital role in checking disruptions. “It is sad, but true, that the proceedings of the House are not well-received [by the public] because of the unparliamentary behaviour of the legislators,” he said.
At a press conference later, Ms. Mahajan said: “Entering the Well is not a good sign; it is not a healthy practice.” She said 16-17 Speakers expressed their views on the item, ‘Role of Parliament in Democracy and Development.’ It was agreed that discussions on issues could boost the development of the nation. On ‘Paperless Parliament,’ the second item, the Presiding Officers agreed on reducing the use of paper to the maximum.
Asked about ordinances being issued by the government when the House was not in session, Ms. Mahajan said fewer ordinances should be issued, but some decisions by the government had to be taken immediately. “Moreover, the ordinances are for a limited period, and have to be placed in the House.”
On the Lok Sabha having no Leader of the Opposition, Ms. Mahajan said the Speaker was bound by rules. “Even if there is no Leader of the Opposition, parties have their leaders.”
The Presiding Officers of 38 Assemblies and Legislative Councils attended the conference.
