Against the backdrop of the unruly behaviour of MPs with the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday emphasised that the dignity of the House and its Chair is an important aspect of the parliamentary system and it is the duty of all members to respect the highest values that our democracy represents.
Birla was talking to media on the aspects of conclusion of the Monsoon Session of the Parliament where he referred to various historic achievements of the Session at the Parliament conducted amidst the Corona pandemic.
Birla added that with the help of all political parties and Members, the productivity of Lok Sabha was at a historic 167 percent. He also informed that despite the threat of COVID-19, the average attendance of MPs during this Session was very high, which sends a very positive message and strengthens peoples’ faith in the democratic institutions.
Referring to recent reports on Question Hour, Birla said that members were given regular opportunities to raise matters concerning peoples’ welfare. He highlighted the enhanced participation of members in Zero Hour and other legislative business.
On a query on the demands of members for the restoration of the MPLAD Scheme, Birla said that the matter was raised by Members across the political spectrum and hoped that the Government and other stakeholders would examine the issue as per merit.