Congress MP Raises Alarm Over Parliamentary Procedure in Lok Sabha
In a significant development concerning parliamentary conduct, Congress Member of Parliament KC Venugopal has formally addressed a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The communication highlights serious concerns regarding what Venugopal describes as procedural irregularities during the passage of the motion of thanks to the President's joint address.
Alleged Violation of Established Parliamentary Rules
The core of the allegation centers on the fact that the motion was passed without a concluding reply from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Furthermore, the Prime Minister was reportedly absent from the Lok Sabha during the session on Wednesday when the motion was ultimately approved. Venugopal has pointedly referenced Rule 20 of the parliamentary procedures, which he asserts mandates a specific protocol.
According to the Congress MP's interpretation, Rule 20 requires the Prime Minister to explain the government's position at the conclusion of the discussion on the motion of thanks. If the Prime Minister is unable to fulfill this duty, the rule stipulates that the House must be formally informed of this circumstance. Venugopal contends that the combination of the Prime Minister's failure to deliver a reply and his subsequent absence during the final passage of the motion constitutes a clear violation of this established rule.
Proper Procedure for Closing Debates Outlined
Elaborating on the correct parliamentary process, Venugopal's letter clarifies the standard method for concluding a debate. He stated that a debate is traditionally and procedurally concluded by the reply of the concerned minister, which in this context is the Prime Minister. In scenarios where a debate must be closed without such a ministerial reply, a specific motion under Rule 362 must be formally moved by a member of the House.
The Congress MP emphasized that neither of these procedural pathways was followed. Instead, he characterized the passage of the motion of thanks as abrupt, occurring without adherence to any of the mandated parliamentary procedures designed to ensure transparency and accountability.
Formal Request for Clarification from the Speaker
In his letter, Venugopal has made a direct appeal to Speaker Om Birla for clarity and accountability. He has formally requested that the Speaker apprise the entire House of the specific procedure that was followed in handling the Prime Minister's reply—or lack thereof—to the debate and the subsequent closure of the discussion.
"A proper analysis of the concerned rules and the procedure adopted by you will greatly benefit the House," Venugopal wrote, underscoring his belief that reviewing these actions is crucial for maintaining the integrity of parliamentary operations. This move seeks to ensure that future sessions adhere strictly to rule-based governance, preventing any precedent of procedural shortcuts in the highest legislative forum of the country.
