The Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die, marking the end of the Monsoon session, which was marred by repeated disruptions by the opposition over various issues, including the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision drive in Bihar. Speaker Om Birla announced the adjournment of the House, bringing down the curtains on the session.
The Monsoon Session commenced on July 21.
Before adjourning the House, Speaker Om Birla expressed his concerns over the disruptions and emphasised the importance of maintaining decorum in the House. He stated that the session had seen 14 government bills introduced and 12 passed, despite the disruptions. However, due to the constant adjournments, the House could only work for 37 hours, falling short of the targeted 120 hours.
The opposition’s repeated disruptions hindered the smooth functioning of the House, with members engaging in heated exchanges and tearing up papers. Despite the disruptions, the Lok Sabha managed to work for 44 hours during the session.
Speaker Om Birla said that he had repeatedly appealed to the members to maintain a high level of decorum and discipline in the House but his appeals fell on deaf ears. He emphasised that as public representatives, their conduct and behavior were closely watched by the country, and it was their responsibility to engage in serious and meaningful discussions on important issues.
The opposition has been demanding a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision drive, particularly in Bihar, where electoral rolls are being revised. They claim the process is being used to exclude certain voters, potentially benefiting the ruling party. The INDIA bloc has unitedly protested, alleging the Election Commission of India is acting at the behest of the government.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, cited a ruling by former Lok Sabha Speaker Balram Jakhar, arguing that Parliament cannot discuss the functioning of the ECI, a constitutionally autonomous body.
The opposition’s demand for discussion has led to repeated adjournments in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, disrupting the legislative business.
The opposition’s protests have continued, with Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi stating that the Lok Sabha can resume proceedings once the Centre answers their demand to discuss the SIR drive. The issue has sparked debate over democracy and the role of the ECI in ensuring fair elections.
Thanking members, ministers, and officials for their cooperation during the session, Om Birla also expressed he hope that the members would reflect on their behavior and strive to maintain the dignity and decorum of the House.