Dr Gandhi raises concern over non appointment of deputy speaker; exclusion of key ministers in budget discussion etc
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ March 30,2025
Dr.Dharamvira Gandhi, Member of Parliament from Patiala, held a press conference today, expressing grave concerns regarding the growing disregard for democratic procedures in the Parliament of India. Dr. Gandhi emphasized that for a democracy to function properly, it is crucial that the Parliament operates smoothly, ensuring that all members, irrespective of their political affiliations, are given equal opportunities to debate, deliberate, and discharge their constitutional duties.
However, recent developments have shown a disturbing trend that undermines the very sanctity of the Parliament.
Dr. Gandhi outlined the following key issues that have surfaced, which require the immediate attention of the media and the Indian public:
- Non-Appointment of Deputy Speaker in LokSabha: The position of Deputy Speaker has been vacant since 2019, despite the Constitutional mandate under Article 93 for its election. The prolonged absence of this key office sets a dangerous precedent, undermining the neutrality and functioning of the House.
- Denial of Speaking Opportunity to the Leader of Opposition (LoP): The established convention of allowing the Leader of Opposition to speak whenever they stand up has been repeatedly disregarded. This break from parliamentary tradition limits the opportunity for healthy debate, which is crucial for any democratic institution.
- Microphones of Opposition Leaders and MPs Being Switched Off: A troubling pattern has emerged where microphones of Opposition MPs are being switched off when they raise points of order, while members of the ruling party continue to speak freely. This practice directly undermines the fairness and effectiveness of parliamentary debate.
- Disregard for Business Advisory Committee (BAC) Decisions: The Government has been bypassing the Business Advisory Committee by introducing business in the House unilaterally, without prior consultation or notice. A notable instance of this was the Prime Minister’s statement in the House last week, which was neither scheduled nor communicated beforehand.
- Exclusion of Key Ministries in Budget and Demand for Grants Discussions: Important ministries have been excluded from the discussion on budget allocations, weakening the parliamentary oversight of financial decisions and reducing transparency in the budgeting process.
- Lack of Discussions Under Rule 193: Rule 193, which permits debates on urgent public issues without the need for a vote, is now rarely invoked, avoiding critical discussions on pressing national matters and bypassing public accountability.
- Interference in Parliamentary Standing Committees: Parliamentary Standing Committees, which are essential for expert legislative oversight, have seen interference from the Speaker’s office, with suggested corrections to committee reports. This undermines their autonomy and independence.
- Neglect and Rejection of Adjournment Motions: Adjournment motions, which allow MPs to raise urgent national issues during Zero Hour, are now frequently ignored or rejected outright, limiting MPs’ ability to hold the Government accountable.
- Neglect of Private Members’ Bills and Resolutions: The limited time and space allocated for the discussion of Private Members’ Bills and Resolutions are stifling legislative debate and the active participation of MPs in the lawmaking process.
- Sansad TV: Dr. Gandhi highlighted a concerning pattern where the camera angles on Sansad TV are changed whenever Opposition floor leaders and MPs speak, effectively censoring their speeches and limiting their visibility to the public.
- House Committee: Opposition parties are being excluded from consultations regarding the composition and chairmanship of parliamentary committees, which is a direct affront to the principles of inclusive governance.
- Consultative Committee Meetings: Many parliamentary committees are failing to meet regularly, undermining their role in facilitating effective legislative oversight and discussions.
Dr. Gandhi concluded his statement by calling for immediate corrective measures to ensure the integrity of India’s parliamentary democracy. He stressed that these developments threaten the very foundations of democracy and must be addressed without delay.
Dr Gandhi raises concern over non appointment of deputy speaker; exclusion of key ministers in budget discussion etc. Other present were Prof. Jaswant Singh Sarao and Ex-Airforce pfficer Darshan Singh.
