The parliament in the last one year has not shown the passion for debate which should inform the country. All the previous three sessions were cut short and if we believe some reports this year it’s going to be the same case as the government is planning to curtail this year’s monsoon session as well. Disruption of Parliament proceedings should not be an option as it weakens our democracy. The Legislative body’s role must be strengthened and deepened for that matter.
From the last year’s monsoon session the first two were cut short because of Covid, the budget session because of campaigning in state elections, and the ongoing session on account of disruption. The political parties can undoubtedly identify the elements causing disorder in the parliament and the changes that can prevent it as there have been many instances like these in history. One such instance dates back to 2001 when a day-long conference was held in the Central Hall of Parliament for discussion of discipline and decorum in legislatures. A galaxy of political leaders including the then PM, Atal Bihari Vajpayee after a long discourse identified four major reasons behind the disorderly conduct by MPs which were:
- Dissatisfaction in MPs
- Unresponsive attitude of the government
- Political parties not adhering to parliamentary norms
- Absence of prompt action against disruption
Hence, the only solution to the disruption of parliament is its strengthening to a greater extent and deepening its role as a forum for deliberation on national issues.