Naidu concerned over washout of Par proceedings

Concerned over the virtual washout of Parliament proceedings, Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu today urged MPs not to further erode "the quality of polity" and make a fresh beginning by conducting themselves in a more dignified manner.

Naidu also pointed out that the representation of women in the Upper House was "very low" despite the passage of the Women Reservation Bill in 2010 and hoped all political parties would accord priority to this.

Naidu's comments came in the backdrop of the second leg of the Budget session, which began on March 5, having failed to transact any substantial business in both the Houses of Parliament. The Upper House was only able to pass the Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill 2017, while the Lok Sabha has cleared the Finance Bill 2018.

Addressing around 60 retiring members of the Upper House, he said "I have had the Honour of being the Chair for last three sessions.

"During this short span of time, I have had mixed emotions. ...In this session, on several occasions, I appealed to parties, their leaders to ensure the smooth functioning of the House. I must confess that I am deeply perturbed the way we have been conducting ourselves."
One one hand, Naidu said he has witnessed very high quality of debate on several occasions, while on the other hand, "I am filled with sadness at the disorder, indiscipline and inappropriate conduct in the House."
Stating that this reference should not become part of political tactic and the House become theatre of politics, he said, "In democracy, there is agreement and disagreement. I agree to disagree, there is nothing wrong in it. But there is a way. I would like to see a more constructive engagement on public issues in future."
Expressing concern over very low representation of women in the Rajya Sabha, the Chairman said: "It is a matter of concern that despite the stellar contribution made by many women members, they still constitute only 11.7 per cent of total membership of this House."
He also mentioned that some retiring members would be remembered for raising points of order, some for their interventions and making good and valid points, while some for giving some lighter moments. "All these are part of democracy. I don't have any ill will against anybody."