TMC's O'Brien Criticizes Delay in Forming Parliamentary Standing Committees

TMC leader Derek O'Brien has criticized the delay in forming parliamentary standing committees, noting that Parliament is being turned into a 'deep, dark chamber.' According to PRS Legislative Research, the percentage of Bills scrutinized by standing committees has significantly decreased from 71% in the 15th Lok Sabha to 16% in the 17th Lok Sabha.

TMC leader Derek O'Brien has raised concerns over the delay in forming parliamentary standing committees, emphasizing that Parliament is being turned into a 'deep, dark chamber.' The 18th Lok Sabha has completed 100 days since its constitution, yet no committees have been formed, he alleged on Sunday.

In a post on Platform X, the leader pointed out that seven out of ten Bills were sent to department-related standing committees in the 15th Lok Sabha, but only two out of ten were referred in the last Lok Sabha. 'Parliamentary standing committees have not yet been formed,' O'Brien reiterated.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated on September 11 that the committees would be constituted soon. PRS Legislative Research data shows a dramatic decline in the scrutiny of Bills by parliament committees, dipping to 16% in the 17th Lok Sabha. Various committees held an average of nine meetings to finalize their reports.

(With inputs from agencies.)