Engage in informed, meaningful debates for progress of nation in Amrit Kaal: RS Chairman

On the occasion of ‘Rajya Sabha Day,’ Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar urged all MPs on Monday to participate in informed and meaningful debates and deliberations for the advancement of the nation. Reminding on this day in 1952 the Rajya Sabha was constituted, Dhankhar noted the importance of the Council of States and asserted that “the House should be a platform for debate, dialogue, deliberations, and discussions, and called for its rightful role in Amrit Kaal.”

“On this significant occasion, I appeal to members of the Upper House to resolve to protect the dignity of the Rajya Sabha, and engage in informed, meaningful debates and deliberations for the greater progress of the nation in Amrit Kaal,” Dhankhar appealed.

The communication from the Rajya Sabha Chairman to all MPs came as the House has been adjourned daily since the second leg of the Budget session began on March 13.

According to Dhankhar, the ‘Council of States,’ as specified in our Constitution, plays an important function in our polity. According to the Chairman, the Rajya Sabha contributes to the benefit of the people by addressing their concerns and serving as a forum for scholarly debates, thus upholding the federal idea of our democracy.

“The terms ‘Upper House’ or ‘House of Elders’ though not part of the official glossary, amply reflect uniquely significant importance of this institution.

“Nation justifiably expects us to lead by example in setting, sublime Parliamentary traditions worth emulating by all others. The House should be a platform for debate, dialogue, deliberations, and discussions, and not a theatre of disruptions and disturbances,” Dhankhar added.