New Delhi: Noting the “increasing phenomenon” of casting members aspersions on its presiding officers Rajya SabhaThe Committee on Privileges said that henceforth any such action by members would be “quant Breach of privilege and contempt of the House” and will have “exemplary consequences”.
The committee made this observation while probing allegations against TMC MP Dola Sen for alleged allegations against Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh last year. The TMC MLA, in his response, admitted to “some derogatory remarks” about the deputy chairman and tendered an unconditional apology.
The committee took note of Sen’s apology and concluded that “no useful purpose would be served by investigating the matter” and recommended that the matter be closed.
The report tabled in the Upper House last week said, “However, the Committee also observes that there is an increasing incidence of prejudice against Presiding Officers and total disregard for the rules and instructions of the Chair… The Committee feels that members should be more cautious and careful in their conduct, especially to influence and make statements to any Officer. The Committee feels that it is prerogative to then express anger at the Presiding Officers or engage in any action which results in disregarding the instructions of the Chair.” may be breached and brought into contempt of the House.”
Last year, a privilege notice was served by three BJP MPs against Sen for his comments on the chair allowing Roopa Ganguly to speak on the Birbhum Rampurhat incident during Zero Hour.
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