Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: boldnewsonline.com

Context: The suspension of 78 Opposition MPs in a single day is a significant event in the Indian Parliament, and it highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining order and decorum during legislative sessions.

Why were the MPs suspended?

• The MPs were suspended for disrupting Parliamentary proceedings during protests related to a security breach in the Parliament.
• In the Lok Sabha, the Opposition demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah, waved placards, and some even climbed onto the Speaker’s podium.
• In the Rajya Sabha, the Opposition raised slogans on the security breach, leading to disruptions.

Disruptions in Parliament can be attributed to various reasons:

• Lack of time: MPs may feel they have insufficient time to address important matters.
• Unresponsive government: When the government is perceived as unresponsive, MPs may resort to disruptive tactics.
• Political or publicity purposes: Some disruptions are deliberate and driven by parties seeking political or publicity gains.
• Absence of prompt action: If there's a perception that disruptive MPs face no consequences, it can encourage such behaviour.

Who can suspend MPs? How?

• The Presiding Officer (Speaker in Lok Sabha, Chairman in Rajya Sabha) plays a crucial role in meting out suspensions.
• The process involves directing the MP to withdraw, naming the legislator if disruptions persist, and then moving a motion to suspend the MP until the end of the session.
• In 2001, the Lok Sabha empowered the Speaker to automatically suspend an MP for five days or the remaining part of the session without the need for a separate motion. However, this provision is not present in the Rajya Sabha.

How long can MPs be suspended for?

• MPs can be suspended for the remainder of the session, with a maximum period of five days (in Lok Sabha). The House can reinstate a suspended member at any point by passing a motion.

Is suspending MPs common practice?

• While it is not uncommon, the number of suspensions has increased in recent years. Since 2019, at least 149 suspensions have occurred, compared to 81 in 2014-19 and 36 in 2009-14.
• Disruptions in Parliament have been a long-standing issue, and efforts have been made to address the root causes.

Challenges in maintaining order

• Maintaining a balance between enforcing order and respecting democratic values is a challenge for Presiding Officers.
• Disruptions arising from frustration or planned parliamentary offences require different approaches, and finding long-term solutions is crucial for the smooth functioning of Parliament.

Conclusion

• The suspension of MPs is a measure taken to address disruptions, but it also reflects broader challenges in the functioning of the Indian Parliament, including issues related to representation, responsiveness, and the need for procedural reforms.

Must Read Articles:

SUSPENSION OF MPs IN INDIA: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/suspension-of-mps-in-india

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. What are the key challenges faced by parliamentary democracy in India, particularly concerning disruptions, suspension of MPs, and maintaining effective legislative proceedings?