Why Was the Rajya Sabha Adjourned Until Monday?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, the Rajya Sabha has been forced to adjourn amid uproar from Opposition members demanding a critical debate on electoral roll revisions in Bihar. This situation highlights the rising tensions in the political landscape. Will the House regain order when it reconvenes?
Key Takeaways
- Rajya Sabha adjourned until Monday
- Opposition demands debate on electoral roll revisions
- Concerns over disenfranchisement arise
- Legislative business remains stalled
- Current tensions reflect political divides
New Delhi, Aug 8 (NationPress) The Rajya Sabha has been adjourned until Monday due to ongoing disturbances from Opposition members who are insisting on a discussion regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
This matter has raised significant concerns regarding the potential for disenfranchisement, turning it into a crucial issue during the current Monsoon Session.
During the morning proceedings, Deputy Chairman Harivansh dismissed 28 notices under Rule 267, which permits suspension of scheduled business to address pressing public matters.
Referencing past practices by former Chairpersons like M. Venkaiah Naidu, Harivansh denied calls for dialogue on SIR, discrimination against Bengali migrant workers, and other topics.
This led to immediate protests from Opposition leaders, such as Derek O’Brien, Tiruchi Siva, and John Brittas, with the latter calling for the abolition of Rule 267 entirely.
When the House resumed after noon, BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari took the chair and reminded participants of a 1985 directive banning the display of badges or symbols in the chamber.
He declined to acknowledge any points of order during Question Hour and urged members to uphold decorum.
Despite numerous appeals, the Opposition MPs continued to shout slogans, with chants like “Vote ki chori band karo” resonating throughout the chamber.
Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Ravneet Singh, stated he was prepared to answer queries but noted, “First, all these ‘chor machaye shor’ must be asked to sit and maintain order.”
Unable to restore order, Tiwari adjourned the House for the day.
The Upper House is set to reconvene at 11 a.m. on Monday.
The SIR initiative in Bihar, launched by the Election Commission of India, has faced backlash from various parties who argue it disproportionately impacts marginalized communities.
The ongoing deadlock in Parliament underscores rising tensions about electoral transparency and procedural integrity.
With both Houses repeatedly adjourned this week, legislative activities remain hindered, raising alarms about the functionality of democratic institutions amidst escalating political rifts.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the ongoing tensions in Parliament. The adjournment of the Rajya Sabha reflects a growing divide on issues of electoral transparency and fairness. The Opposition's demands for dialogue on the SIR of electoral rolls merit serious consideration, as they address the concerns of the marginalized communities affected by this issue.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha?
The Rajya Sabha was adjourned due to persistent disruptions by Opposition members calling for a debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an initiative by the Election Commission of India aimed at updating electoral rolls, which has faced criticism for potentially affecting marginalized communities.
When will the Rajya Sabha reconvene?
The Rajya Sabha is scheduled to reconvene at 11 a.m. on Monday.
Why are Opposition members protesting?
Opposition members are protesting to demand a discussion on the SIR, which they believe could lead to disenfranchisement of voters.
What does Rule 267 entail?
Rule 267 allows for the suspension of listed business to discuss matters of urgent public importance, which the Deputy Chairman rejected in this instance.
