Oppn against curbs on scribes' access to Central Hall

NEW DELHI: A proposal on scrutinising journalists' access to Central Hall of Parliament is understood to have been discussed by the general purpose committee meeting of Lok Sabha on Monday.
According to sources, Speaker Om Birla informed the committee about the proposal which was opposed by opposition members. The issue came up as part of the agenda on 'constitution of press advisory committee' when the Speaker mentioned access to Central Hall where MPs interact with journalists.
Sources said many opposition members said no new regulation should be brought in as press was considered the "fourth pillar of democracy". Some others said formation of the press advisory committee should be the focus.
Some members also told the Speaker that any decision on the issue of disallowing journalists into Central Hall should be taken up only after discussing with all members and even journalists' bodies. The Speaker set it at rest by saying he would hold discussions with everybody concerned, sources said.
Birla also suggested some changes in rules for private members' bills, usually slotted for the second half on Fridays, in both Houses. An opposition leader said, "Private members' bills are supposed to give priority to opposition members but for the last few months, the pattern has been to allow MPs from treasury benches to bring in such bills."
Members were also told that with a new digital system in place, MPs will have to electronically mark their presence or swipe cards on every working day.