The Hon’ble Chairman of Rajya Sabha issued a severe warning expressing great worry over the widespread abuse of Rule 265, which permits House activities to be suspended. Published on the Rajya Sabha homepage, the Chairman’s statements underlined the seriousness of the matter and exhorted political leaders to act right away. This evolution reminds us of the need of preserving the dignity and purity of the democratic process as well as of the need of acting responsibly and according to House norms.
The Chairman’s observations underlined the extraordinary character of Rule 265, which has been used just six times in the preceding thirty-six years. But lately, it has become a regular habit since several requests are made every sitting day. This, the Chairman pointed out, has turned the system to a comical exercise, therefore compromising the whole aim of the law. The Chairman’s forceful comments underlined the need of immediate response to this issue since notes submitted today did not follow his instructions.
The abuse of Rule 265 is a sign of a more general issue: the decline of democratic process and parliamentary standards deterioration. The House’s capacity to hold the government responsible has been undermined by the regular suspension of procedures, which has resulted in a dearth of significant debate and discussion on important concerns. This has thereby far-reaching effects for the nation when significant decisions are taken without sufficient review and control.
The call to action from the Chairman reminds us urgently of the need of conscientious government and respect of parliamentary rules. Political party leaders have an obligation to call on this matter and bring the mechanism back to its intended use. This calls for a dedication to respect the dignity and sanctity of the democratic process as well as a readiness to participate in serious critical issue debate and discussion.
Moreover, the abuse of Rule 265 emphasises the need of more openness and responsibility for the House’s operations. The directions of the Chair have to be followed, and notes have to follow accepted practices. Rather than a society of convenience and expediency, this calls for a society of responsibility and rule-abiding obedience.
Finally, the Chairman’s warning on the abuse of Rule 267 is a loud demand for prudent government and respect of parliamentary standards. It reminds us of the need of preserving the dignity and sanctity of the democratic process as well as of the need of honest debate and discussion on important problems. Political party leaders have to answer on this matter and restore the system to its intended use. The House can then play its function as a dynamic and successful democracy institution.