Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has called on all members of the Rajya Sabha to respect the parliamentary process and put an end to constant disruptions that are hampering the functioning of the Upper House. His appeal came amidst growing concern over the loss of over 53 hours of productive time in the current session due to repeated protests and adjournments.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Rijiju referred to a 1997 resolution unanimously adopted by members of Parliament, which emphasized the need to preserve the dignity of the House, ensure uninterrupted proceedings, and maintain a high standard of debate. He urged members to reflect on the spirit of that resolution and work collectively to restore the decorum and seriousness of parliamentary sessions.
Rijiju stated that the people of India expect their elected representatives to engage in constructive discussions and address critical national issues through dialogue. He said disruptions not only waste public resources but also damage the credibility of the parliamentary system. “Every hour lost is a missed opportunity to raise people’s concerns and contribute to nation-building,” he added.
The current monsoon session has seen repeated disruptions over various political issues, leading to frequent adjournments and stalled legislative business. Opposition parties have raised concerns on matters including inflation, unemployment, and recent political developments, often leading to loud protests and walkouts. In response, the government has expressed its willingness to discuss all issues but has urged for orderly conduct.
Rijiju’s comments reflect growing frustration within the government over the inability to pass key bills or conduct meaningful debates in the allotted time. Parliamentary records show that a significant portion of the session has been lost to noise and protests, with minimal legislative output achieved so far.
Quoting the 1997 resolution, Rijiju said that members must “maintain decorum, avoid shouting slogans, and ensure the House functions with dignity.” He reminded members that such a resolution was passed across party lines and remains relevant today. The resolution had been adopted during the golden jubilee of Indian independence, with the goal of strengthening democratic institutions.
Several senior members of the House echoed Rijiju’s sentiments, calling for renewed commitment to democratic values. Some opposition leaders, however, defended their right to protest, saying disruptions occur only when the government refuses to listen to legitimate concerns raised by the opposition.
Analysts say that disruptions in Parliament have become increasingly frequent over the years, reducing the time available for policy discussions and lawmaking. They suggest reforms such as time-bound debates, stricter rules against disorderly conduct, and greater dialogue between the ruling and opposition benches.
As the session continues, the focus remains on whether all parties can find common ground to ensure that the remaining days are used productively. Rijiju’s appeal highlights a broader call for restoring dignity, discipline, and dialogue within India’s democratic institutions.
