Congress Leader Accuses PM Modi of Undermining Parliamentary Democracy
In a strong critique of the central government's parliamentary conduct, Congress MLC Ivan D'Souza has asserted that passing the Motion of Thanks on the President's Address without a formal reply from Prime Minister Narendra Modi constitutes a clear violation of the established rules and traditions of the House.
A Fundamental Breach of Parliamentary Duty
Addressing the media in Mangaluru, D'Souza emphasized that the Prime Minister, as the head of the government, holds the fundamental responsibility to explain and defend the government's position at the conclusive stage of the discussion on the Motion of Thanks. "The Prime Minister has the solemn duty to inform the House if he is genuinely unable to fulfill this obligation," D'Souza stated.
He condemned the reported decision to skip the address based on advice from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who allegedly cited concerns that MPs might attempt to create disorder. "This action is a blot on our democratic fabric," the Congress leader declared. "If the Prime Minister, who aspires to be a 'Vishwaguru' or world teacher, claims he lacks the safety to speak within Parliament, what does that signal for the security of the common citizen?"
Drawing Parallels to State-Level Issues
D'Souza further drew a critical parallel to a recent incident in Karnataka, where the Governor allegedly failed to read the full speech prepared by the state Cabinet. He alleged that both instances, at the central and state levels, represent concerted attempts to weaken democratic institutions and undermine constitutional protocols.
"These are not isolated events but part of a pattern that seeks to erode the accountability mechanisms inherent in our parliamentary system," the MLC argued, connecting the dots between the two controversies.
Victory for Workers: MCF Name Retained
In a separate but significant development, Ivan D'Souza welcomed the decision by the management of Paradeep Phosphates Limited (PPL) to retain the historic name 'Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilisers' (MCF) on its nameboard alongside the new corporate identity.
He credited this positive outcome to the united and persistent protests staged by the MCF workers' union, supportive citizens from across the district, and proactive elected representatives. The issue had been formally raised both with the District Commissioner and within the legislative council, highlighting the community's deep attachment to the MCF legacy.
"The retention of the MCF name is a testament to the power of collective voice and democratic protest. It safeguards the industrial heritage and identity of the region," D'Souza remarked, acknowledging the successful advocacy effort.
