Rajya Sabha Chairperson Denounces Undignified Behaviour in the House

Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar criticized undignified behaviour during House proceedings, calling it a threat to the spirit of democracy. He emphasized the importance of listening to differing views and condemned members who use media and social platforms for attention. Dhankhar highlighted the importance of Parliament as a citadel of constitutional values and referenced the Emergency period as a dark time in Indian history.

Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday criticized undignified behaviour during House proceedings, describing it as a blow to the spirit of democracy.

Dhankhar lamented that members today are unwilling to listen to differing viewpoints. He emphasized the importance of considering all perspectives as part of parliamentary practice during an orientation programme for new Rajya Sabha members.

He expressed concern over members seeking media attention immediately after leaving the House and using social media to grab eyeballs.

"Members come a minute before their speech and leave immediately. Your presence is not there; you adopt a hit-and-run strategy," he remarked.

Dhankhar noted that Parliament has historically been a citadel of constitutional values and liberties, despite occasional issues.

However, he voiced concern that undignified behaviour is now being used as a political weapon, threatening the spirit of democracy.

Referencing the Emergency period, Dhankhar termed it as a dark chapter when the Constitution was reduced to just a piece of paper and leaders were imprisoned.

(With inputs from agencies.)