LS Speaker bars MPs from additional remarks during oath ceremony.

LS Speaker bars MPs from additional remarks during oath ceremony.

The amendment comes amid controversy over some MPs raising slogans like “Jai Palestine” and “Jai Hindu Rashtra” while taking the oath. This move by the LS Speaker aims to maintain decorum and neutrality during the swearing-in ceremonies. The rule change seeks to prevent the politicization of the oath-taking process and ensure that it remains a solemn and respectful occasion.

New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Amends Rules to Restrict MPs from Using Additional Remarks During Oath

In a significant move to uphold the decorum and sanctity of parliamentary proceedings, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has amended parliamentary rules to restrict newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) This amendment has been made to Rule 389 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha (Seventeenth Edition).

This amendment aims to ensure that the oath-taking process remains solemn and respectful, free from any political or ideological expressions that could potentially disrupt the proceedings.

The need for this amendment arose amid controversy over some MPs raising slogans like “Jai Palestine” and “Jai Hindu Rashtra” while taking the oath. Recently, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi raised slogans of ‘Jai Bhim, Jai Mim, Jai Telangana, and ‘Jai Palestine’ in the House after taking the oath as an MP. Apart from Owaisi, some other MPs were also seen raising slogans before or after taking the oath, leading to debates about the appropriateness of such actions.

Detailed Points on the Amendment and its Implications

1. Purpose of the Amendment:
   The primary purpose of the amendment is to maintain the sanctity and neutrality of the oath-taking process. By restricting MPs from adding any additional words or remarks, the Speaker aims to prevent the politicization of this solemn occasion.
2. Scope of the Amendment:
   The amendment specifically prohibits the use of any words or expressions as prefixes or suffixes to the form of oath or affirmation. This means that MPs are required to adhere strictly to the text provided in the Third Schedule to the Constitution of India.
3. Controversial Slogans:
   The amendment comes in response to incidents where MPs raised slogans such as “Jai Palestine” and “Jai Hindu Rashtra” during the oath-taking ceremony. These slogans, viewed as political statements, sparked controversy and debates within the parliamentary proceedings.
4. Recent Incidents:
   AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s slogans of ‘Jai Bhim, Jai Mim, Jai Telangana, and ‘Jai Palestine’ after taking the oath were particularly notable. These actions, along with similar incidents by other MPs, highlighted the need for clearer guidelines to maintain decorum.
5. Impact on Parliamentary Decorum:
   The amendment is expected to enhance parliamentary decorum by ensuring that the oath-taking ceremony remains a formal and respectful event. It seeks to eliminate any disruptions caused by additional remarks or slogans.
6. Legal Framework:
   By aligning the oath-taking process with the Third Schedule of the Constitution, the amendment reinforces the legal framework governing parliamentary procedures. This alignment ensures consistency and adherence to constitutional provisions.
7. Implications for MPs:
   MPs will now need to be more mindful of the words they use during the oath-taking process. Any deviation from the prescribed text could result in procedural issues or potential disciplinary action.
8. Neutrality and Inclusivity:
   The amendment promotes the principles of neutrality and inclusivity in parliamentary proceedings. By restricting additional remarks, it ensures that no single political or ideological stance is given prominence during the oath-taking ceremony.
9. Reactions from Political Leaders:
   The amendment has elicited mixed reactions from political leaders. Some have welcomed the move as a necessary step to maintain decorum, while others have expressed concerns about restricting free expression.
10. Future Implications:
    The amendment sets a precedent for future parliamentary sessions. It is likely to influence how MPs approach the oath-taking process and could lead to further discussions on maintaining the balance between free expression and parliamentary decorum.

Context and Rationale Behind the Amendment

The context for this amendment can be traced back to several instances where MPs have used the oath-taking ceremony as a platform to make political or ideological statements. These actions, while often intended to express personal or party beliefs, have sometimes led to disruptions and debates about the appropriateness of such expressions during a formal parliamentary process.

One of the most notable incidents involved AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi. During his oath-taking, Owaisi raised slogans like ‘Jai Bhim, Jai Mim, Jai Telangana,’ and ‘Jai Palestine.’ While his actions were intended to highlight various causes and identities he supports, they also drew criticism for deviating from the formal script of the oath. Similar incidents by other MPs further underscored the need for a clear and consistent approach to the oath-taking process.

By amending Rule 389, the Speaker aims to address these concerns and provide a clear framework for MPs to follow. The amendment reinforces the importance of adhering to the prescribed text in the Third Schedule to the Constitution, ensuring that the oath-taking ceremony remains a solemn and respectful occasion.

Broader Implications for Parliamentary Procedures

The amendment also has broader implications for parliamentary procedures and the conduct of MPs. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining decorum and respecting the formalities of parliamentary proceedings. By restricting additional remarks during the oath-taking process, the amendment helps to prevent potential disruptions and ensures that the focus remains on the formal aspects of the ceremony.

Additionally, the amendment reflects a commitment to upholding the principles of neutrality and inclusivity in parliamentary proceedings. By preventing the use of political or ideological slogans during the oath-taking process, it ensures that the ceremony remains a neutral and inclusive event, free from partisan expressions.

Conclusion

The amendment to Rule 389 by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla marks a significant step in ensuring the decorum and sanctity of parliamentary proceedings. By restricting MPs from using additional words or remarks during the oath-taking process, the amendment aims to maintain the solemnity and neutrality of the ceremony. It addresses the controversy over the use of political slogans like “Jai Palestine” and “Jai Hindu Rashtra,” providing a clear framework for MPs to follow.

The amendment has broader implications for parliamentary procedures, reinforcing the importance of maintaining decorum and respecting the formalities of parliamentary proceedings. As MPs adapt to the new rules, the amendment is expected to contribute to a more respectful and orderly parliamentary environment, ensuring that the focus remains on the formal and constitutional aspects of the oath-taking process.