Parliament disrupted for the third day in row

The Parliament was disrupted for the third day in a row with a determined Opposition demanding a discussion on price rise under Rule 184 that entails voting. Sharad Yadav appealed that the opposition should be heard, and the Government didn't comply, reports The Hindu.

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Proceedings in both Houses of Parliament were disrupted for the third day on Thursday with a determined Opposition demanding a discussion on price rise under Rule 184 that entails voting.

However, the statutory resolution granting approval for imposition of President's rule in Jharkhand was passed without debate.

Raising the demand in the Lok Sabha for a discussion under Rule 184 after the demand for an adjournment motion was rejected by Speaker Meira Kumar on Wednesday, Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj said the Opposition was “hurt and disappointed” by her ruling, and hence sought a discussion under Rule 184 — as suggested by her — which should be taken up after doing away with question hour. “The matter should be taken up immediately so that the House functions normally,” Ms. Swaraj said.

Sharad Yadav's plea

Janata Dal (United) leader Sharad Yadav also appealed to the Speaker to ensure that the Opposition was heard, as the government had refused to do so. The Opposition sought a discussion under the new rule after deliberating on the issue overnight. “Even the people were pained at your decision, but we have accepted it, and now demand that the discussion be taken up.” Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh drew the Speaker's attention to the fact that this was the first time the entire Opposition had come together on one issue. “If the House is not functioning, it is because of the government and not us.”

Ms. Kumar said the notices she received for discussion under Rule 184 were being examined, and would have to be sent to the Business Advisory Committee for approval.

Intervening, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said the government was not shying away from discussing any issue, but notices under Rule 193 (not entailing voting) received earlier would be taken up first.

His remarks evoked a sharp reaction from the Opposition members, who trooped into the well. The House was adjourned soon after.

The scene was no better when the House re-assembled at noon. The Opposition members, including those of the SP and the BSP, stormed into the well. But the Speaker went ahead with the laying of papers and even getting approval for the proclamation that put Jharkhand under President's rule under Article 356 (1) on June 1.

In the Rajya Sabha too, the Opposition members made the same demand, leading to two adjournments. It was adjourned for the day at noon after papers were tabled and approval was granted for President's rule in Jharkhand. Again, without any discussion.