Parliamentary Discussion on Special Intensive Revision and Electoral Reforms
Government Open to Dialogue on Electoral Reforms
New Delhi, Dec 2: The government has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and electoral reforms in Parliament. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju made this announcement in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, urging opposition parties to refrain from imposing strict timelines.
As the opposition continued to press for a discussion on the SIR for the second consecutive day, Rijiju indicated that he would consult with leaders from various political factions to address the matter.
“I previously requested that no timeline conditions be placed on this issue. My intention is to engage with leaders from different parties, whether formally or informally, and eventually bring it to your attention (the Chair). The complications arise when time constraints are questioned; not everything can be approached mechanically,” Rijiju stated.
The Minister emphasized the importance of dialogue in a parliamentary democracy, noting, “There are numerous pressing issues in the country. It is crucial not to diminish one issue while elevating another; all matters hold significance,” he added.
This statement followed a scene where opposition MPs entered the well of the House, chanting slogans demanding a discussion on the SIR.
Congress President and Leader of the Opposition, Mallikarjun Kharge, highlighted the urgent nature of the situation, citing that 28 block-level officers (BLOs) had succumbed to the overwhelming workload associated with the SIR.
"This is a pressing issue. We insist on an immediate discussion. For the sake of democracy, citizens, and the nation, you must allow this dialogue (on SIR). We are ready to cooperate," Kharge urged Chairman C P Radhakrishnan.
Previously, the Chairman had dismissed 21 notices submitted under Rule 267, which seeks to set aside the day's business for discussions on raised issues. Radhakrishnan noted that the notices pertained to five different topics but were not in order, leading to their rejection.
As opposition MPs reiterated their demand for an immediate discussion on SIR, Rijiju criticized them, suggesting their frustrations stemmed from electoral defeats.
"You are unable to win elections, and the public does not trust you, leading to your expressions of anger in the House. This behavior is inappropriate. I reiterated yesterday that we are open to discussions, but we must first convene formally. It is unreasonable to demand a timeline," he remarked, emphasizing that elections are a fundamental aspect of democracy.
As the official papers were presented in the House, opposition MPs began chanting slogans once more, some moving into the well of the House.
In the midst of the uproar, the Chair proceeded to the next Zero Hour mention. However, due to the ongoing commotion, the Chair adjourned the proceedings until 2 PM.