Why Did Opposition Disrupt Lok Sabha Until Friday, Leaving Goa ST Representation Bill Undiscussed?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing disruptions in Lok Sabha reflect deep political divides.
- The Goa ST Representation Bill aims to ensure representation for Scheduled Tribes.
- Opposition parties demand accountability from the government.
- Legislative paralysis raises concerns about pending bills.
- Maintaining decorum is essential in a functioning democracy.
New Delhi, July 24 (NationPress) The Lok Sabha experienced another tumultuous session on Thursday as opposition members (MPs) disrupted the proceedings with their slogans and placards, leading to multiple adjournments and ultimately bringing legislative business to a standstill for the day.
As TDP leader Krishna Prasad Tenneti assumed the Chair, opposition members immediately began chanting slogans, demanding a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar and other urgent matters.
The uproar overshadowed scheduled activities, including the presentation of party committee reports by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and issues raised under Rule 377 by Janardan Mishra concerning rural development and Panchayati Raj.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal attempted to introduce the Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024, a groundbreaking legislation aimed at ensuring ST representation in Goa’s Legislative Assembly for the first time.
However, the opposition declined to engage, prompting Meghwal to express his frustration: “This is a historic opportunity for Scheduled Tribes in Goa. You are denying them a voice in the House.”
Meghwal accused the opposition of intentionally stalling discussions on tribal issues, stating, “You don’t want this House to deliberate on the rights of the Scheduled Tribes. This is not the conduct expected in the world’s largest democracy.”
Despite persistent appeals from the Chair to uphold decorum, opposition MPs continued to wave their placards and shout slogans.
Acting Speaker Tenneti cautioned that placard-waving breached Parliamentary protocols and urged members to return to their seats.
With no cooperation offered, he adjourned the House until Friday. This disruption marks the fourth consecutive day of protests during Parliament’s monsoon session, with opposition parties demanding a response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Bihar voter roll revision, Operation Sindoor, and the Pahalgam terror attack.
As legislative gridlock intensifies, concerns arise over whether critical Bills, including those pertaining to tribal representation and maritime law, will receive the attention they deserve before the session concludes on August 21.