Goa Assembly Speaker Upholds Ban on Protesters Following Gallery Disruption
In a decisive move to maintain parliamentary decorum, Goa Legislative Assembly Speaker Ganesh Gaonkar announced on Monday that restrictions on the entry of individuals who protested in the Visitors' Gallery over the Mirabag Bandhara project will continue indefinitely. The announcement came during the conclusion of the budget session, which was declared sine die by the Speaker.
Incident and Apology Accepted
Gaonkar referenced the incident that occurred on March 6, when protesters seated in the gallery raised slogans and displayed posters, disrupting the proceedings. The Speaker accepted an apology tendered by Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, but emphasized that the matter was treated with utmost seriousness due to its potential to interfere with the orderly conduct of House business.
"Such acts within the precincts of the House have the potential to interfere with the orderly conduct of the business of the House and may amount to a breach of privilege and contempt of the House," Gaonkar stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Consultations and Decision-Making Process
To ensure a comprehensive response, Speaker Gaonkar held detailed consultations with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who also serves as the Home Minister. The consultations aimed to examine the matter in its entirety and determine an appropriate course of action that balances democratic values with the need to preserve the assembly's dignity.
"The restriction on the entry of the said persons into the precincts of the assembly shall continue until further orders," Gaonkar declared, reinforcing the commitment to uphold the sanctity of the legislative body.
Broader Implications and Reminder
Gaonkar expressed hope that this decision would serve as a clear reminder to all stakeholders about the importance of respecting parliamentary protocols. The move highlights the assembly's zero-tolerance policy towards disruptions that could undermine its functioning and democratic integrity.
This development underscores the ongoing efforts to maintain decorum in Goa's legislative processes, particularly in the context of contentious projects like the Mirabag Bandhara, which has sparked public debate and protests.
