Why Is the Lok Sabha in Chaos Over SIR Discussions?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Lok Sabha is currently facing unrest due to protests regarding the SIR.
- Speaker Om Birla has called for dignity and decorum in parliamentary discussions.
- Prime Minister Modi has warned against disorderly behavior in the House.
- Protests reflect the importance of electoral transparency in democracy.
- The SIR process aims to enhance the integrity of electoral rolls.
New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Lok Sabha descended into turmoil once again on Tuesday, marking the second day of the Parliament's Winter Session. Members from the Opposition vociferously protested, insisting on a discussion regarding the ongoing Special Intensive Review (SIR) of electoral rolls that is being conducted across various states and union territories.
As the Question Hour commenced, Opposition MPs swiftly stood up and began chanting slogans like 'SIR pe charcha karo', demanding an immediate debate on the matter.
Despite Speaker Om Birla's repeated pleas for them to take their seats and allow the proceedings to unfold, the uproar continued unabated.
Expressing his discontent over the behavior observed both inside and outside the House, the Speaker stated, "The manner in which MPs are discussing Parliament today, both in and out of the House, is detrimental to both Parliament and the nation... The country is watching... While opposition is a part of democracy, there must be dignity and decorum."
"As the world’s largest democracy, which sets an example globally, our Parliamentary traditions and dignity should be held to the highest standards," he further remarked.
As the protests showed no indication of subsiding, the House was adjourned until noon amidst the ongoing chaos.
The Winter Session had already commenced on a tumultuous note on Monday, with the Lok Sabha witnessing renewed protests over allegations of "vote chori" in the recent Bihar Assembly elections, as well as concerns regarding the SIR process.
Prior to the Winter Session's commencement on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned parliamentarians against disorderly conduct, emphasizing that there should be no "drama" in the House and that the focus must remain on policymaking rather than on shouting slogans.
Speaking to reporters before the Winter Session, he stated, "There are ample places for drama; those inclined can continue there. We need to ensure delivery and not drama. As for slogans, the entire nation can hear them; raise them wherever you wish, but the focus in Parliament should be on policy, not slogans."