Rajya Sabha Members Demand Urgent Solutions for Key Issues in Uttarakhand
Key Issues Raised in Rajya Sabha
On Friday, members of the Rajya Sabha brought several critical issues to the forefront, including the census in Uttarakhand, the expansion of the CIP mental health hospital in Ranchi, the need for legislation to protect lawyers, and the reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBC) in parliamentary and assembly elections. During the zero hour, BJP's Mahendra Bhatt highlighted the importance of the census in Uttarakhand, stating that it is not merely a counting exercise but a matter that affects the state's future, identity, and overall development.
He emphasized that the 2027 census will serve as a foundation for national policies, plans, and resources, making it particularly significant. Bhatt suggested that the census in Uttarakhand should be conducted through a community participation initiative called 'Apni Ginti Apna Gaon' rather than traditional methods, noting that many villages have become deserted due to migration.
He asserted that the impact of migration has severely affected Uttarakhand's demographics, making accurate counting in remote villages essential. Bhatt insisted that Uttarakhand is not just a state but a crucial border area, advocating for the census to be carried out under the 'Apni Ginti Apna Gaon' campaign to ensure sustainable development.
Another BJP member, Pradeep Kumar Verma, raised the issue of the CIP mental health hospital in Ranchi, calling for it to be designated as a national institution. Established in 1918, the Central Institute of Psychiatry (CIP) serves a significant number of patients, many of whom are from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Verma stressed the need for infrastructure expansion and modernization of the facility, arguing that its importance warrants national recognition.
Manan Kumar Mishra from the BJP brought attention to the 'Advocate Protection Act,' stating that this has been a long-standing demand from lawyers. He pointed out that lawyers face threats while arguing cases in courts, with several having been murdered. Mishra called for the establishment of the Advocate Protection Act to ensure their safety.
Lastly, BJP's Raiga Krishna advocated for OBC reservation in parliamentary and assembly elections. He noted that while there are provisions for OBC reservations in education, jobs, and local body elections, such arrangements are lacking in parliamentary and assembly elections. He urged the government to address this issue.