Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Derek O'Brien has raised an issue regarding the role of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in the Rajya Sabha, accusing him of speaking for nearly 30% of the time during parliamentary sessions. O'Brien's comments, made in the context of ongoing discussions about the functioning of the Rajya Sabha, have sparked a fresh debate about the impartiality and the role of the Chair in the upper house.
According to O’Brien, Dhankhar, who also serves as the Rajya Sabha Chairman, has been excessively participating in debates, which he claims undermines the neutrality of the position. The Vice President, as per convention, is expected to remain neutral and facilitate discussions without taking sides. O'Brien's accusation highlights concerns that the Speaker’s role is becoming more active in influencing debates rather than ensuring smooth functioning.
In a series of statements, O'Brien pointed out that Dhankhar's frequent interventions have raised eyebrows, particularly among opposition members. He argued that such behaviour could potentially affect the flow of debates and discussions in the Rajya Sabha, especially on sensitive issues where a neutral stance is crucial.
This remark has stirred a political controversy, with some members of the opposition expressing support for O'Brien’s stance, citing that the Chair should avoid speaking extensively during debates. On the other hand, supporters of the Vice President have defended his actions, arguing that his interventions were necessary to maintain order in the house, especially during volatile debates.
Dhankhar has not yet responded to the specific allegations raised by O’Brien, but his role in the Rajya Sabha has been a subject of debate ever since he assumed office. The Vice President’s statements and decisions during the sessions often draw significant attention, given his constitutional position as the presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha.
The comments by O'Brien are expected to intensify the ongoing discussions about the functioning of Parliament, particularly regarding the role of the Chairman in maintaining the decorum of the house. With the ongoing political confrontations in Parliament, the controversy surrounding Dhankhar’s participation could play a significant role in shaping perceptions about the Rajya Sabha’s functioning.
As Parliament continues its proceedings, this issue is likely to remain a talking point, with both ruling and opposition parties weighing in on the need for neutrality in the upper house’s chairmanship.
