Debate Dilemma: Calls for Deeper Discussions in Rajya Sabha

CPI (M) member John Brittas expressed concerns over the hasty passage of bills in Rajya Sabha, urging the new chairman to ensure thorough discussions and the involvement of Opposition parties. Other members highlighted the declining quality of debates and the need for equitable speaking opportunities, especially for women.

During Monday's session, CPI (M) Rajya Sabha member John Brittas raised alarm over the rapid passage of bills in the Upper House, emphasizing a need for comprehensive discussions. Addressing Chairman C P Radhakrishnan, Brittas stressed the importance of including all political ideologies in debates, particularly those from the Opposition.

Brittas articulated serious concerns about how, between 2019 and 2024, a significant number of bills were passed with minimal discussion time, suggesting a departure from B R Ambedkar's vision of thorough legislative deliberation. He pointed out the reduced number of annual sittings and the frequent suspension of MPs as contributing factors to the declining quality of parliamentary discourse.

Several members echoed Brittas' sentiments, including NCP's Praful Patel and Samajwadi Party's Javed Ali Khan, who advocated for adequate debate time and equitable participation. Notably, NCP-SCP member Fauzia Khan called for a dedicated percentage of speaking opportunities for women in the House, highlighting gender-based discrepancies in parliamentary proceedings.

(With inputs from agencies.)