Why Was the Rajya Sabha Adjourned Until 2 PM Amid Uproar?
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Synopsis
The Rajya Sabha faced turbulence as it was adjourned until 2 PM due to a heated exchange over the rejection of Rule 267 notices. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the Monsoon Session, raising questions about parliamentary procedures and the Opposition's demand for a debate on electoral transparency.
Key Takeaways
- Rajya Sabha adjourned amid uproar.
- Chair rejected 21 notices under Rule 267.
- Debate on electoral transparency remains unresolved.
- Over 62 hours lost in the Monsoon Session.
- Procedural rules emphasized by Deputy Chairman.
New Delhi, Aug 12 (NationPress) The Rajya Sabha has been adjourned until 2 p.m. on Tuesday due to a boisterous clash between the Chair and Opposition members regarding the dismissal of 21 notices filed under Rule 267. This rule allows for the suspension of scheduled business to address urgent public matters.
The Deputy Chairman Harivansh, who was overseeing the session, indicated that the notices submitted related to four distinct topics, but none adhered to the required format as stipulated under Rule 267.
Among these, 11 notices aimed to initiate discussions on issues currently sub judice.
Referencing procedural guidelines and historical precedents, the Deputy Chairman rejected all notices, emphasizing that parliamentary regulations prevent discussions on cases still pending in court.
DMK MP Tiruchi Siva sought to invoke Rule 266, which grants the Chair authority to manage matters not explicitly outlined in the rulebook.
“Even the Constitution can be amended,” Siva contended, calling for adaptability in light of significant national issues.
Nonetheless, the Chair insisted on adhering to the rules and could not process improperly structured motions.
As the Deputy Chairman began calling names for Zero Hour submissions, Trinamool Congress member Derek O’Brien interrupted, criticizing the strict adherence to procedures.
“This is not a gymkhana. There are serious matters at hand,” he stated, objecting to the late addition of two major taxation bills to the supplementary list.
He asserted that the “Opposition was open to discussing the SIR matter in any terms the government favored,” but was interrupted by the Chair, who reiterated that the issue had already been addressed.
Earlier, ministers and several members submitted official documents and reports as part of the scheduled business.
However, the Opposition’s relentless calls for a debate on electoral transparency resulted in yet another interruption during the Monsoon Session, which has already seen over 62 hours lost to repeated adjournments.
Point of View
I must emphasize the importance of maintaining decorum in parliamentary proceedings. The recent adjournment of the Rajya Sabha highlights the necessity for clear communication and adherence to established protocols. While the Opposition's calls for transparency are valid, it is equally essential to respect the framework within which our democracy operates. The current situation warrants a balanced discourse that prioritizes both procedural integrity and public accountability.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha?
The adjournment was triggered by a dispute over the rejection of 21 notices submitted under Rule 267, which allows for urgent discussions.
What is Rule 267?
Rule 267 allows members of the Rajya Sabha to suspend listed business to discuss matters of urgent public importance.
How many hours has the Monsoon Session lost due to disruptions?
The Monsoon Session has lost over 62 hours due to repeated adjournments.
Who is the presiding officer during this session?
The Deputy Chairman, Harivansh, is presiding over the session.
What was the Opposition's main demand?
The Opposition demanded a debate on electoral transparency during the session.
