Vibha Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 11

With the productivity of the Lok Sabha only 22 per cent in the just-concluded Monsoon Session, Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday said that Parliament functions with ‘sahmati’, ‘samvad’, and ‘charcha’ (cooperation, dialogue and discussion) and urged all parties to help in smooth functioning of the House in future. 

Birla said that banners and slogan-shouting are not part of ‘maryada’ and ‘parampara’ of Parliament functioning and that he would make more efforts to ensure smooth functioning of the House. In this context, he would also like to hold discussions on members known for creating regular disruptions. 

Speaking to the media after the Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die on Wednesday morning, Birla said people of the country wanted Parliament to function. “Many rounds of talks with Opposition before and during the session were held but we could not ensure a breakthrough,” he said.

Crores of rupees are spent on Parliament functioning, he added. 

“I always try to ensure that the House functions through dialogue. I hope that we are able to ensure it functions in a better way in the future,” he said.  

Urging members to follow traditions and ensure the dignity of the House, he said, “Banners, slogans, storming the well are not part of our parliamentary ‘maryada’. We will make more efforts to ensure that they are followed,” he said. 

On why Parliament continued to see disruptions and unruly scenes despite his pre-session meeting with Opposition parties when leaders ensured cooperation, the Speaker said: “Ahead of every session, I hold a conversation with Opposition members and parties. The procedure was followed this time also. We will try to make more efforts in the future. The media should also help.”

Birla said the rules are made in consensus with all parties. “Those members who create regular disruptions should be discussed, I have urged all political parties,” he added.