Rajya Sabha panel proposes restraining MPs from undermining constitutional authorities, fellow members
The Rajya Sabha Ethics Committee is proposing stricter rules to prevent MPs from undermining constitutional authorities or fellow members through their speech. The panel is seeking input from stakeholders on how to balance parliamentary privilege with accountability for sensitive or controversial statements.
Why it matters
This initiative addresses the growing concern over disorderly conduct and the misuse of parliamentary immunity, potentially reshaping the standards of political discourse in India.
A Rajya Sabha Committee has proposed putting clear provisions in place for refraining MPs of the Upper House from undermining the constitutional authorities or fellow members through statements made in the House or on public and digital platforms.
The Ethics Committee of the Rajya Sabha has also proposed explicitly mentioning in the code of conduct for MPs that the members "must not misuse" the protection given to them for free speech in Parliamentary proceedings in situations where such speech can harm the reputation of others including fellow members, Ministers or other public figures.
Expressing serious concern over what it called an increasing trend of disorderly proceedings in legislatures and disregard of established Parliamentary customs, the committee has decided to review the code of conduct through wide ranging consultations with various stakeholders, including political parties, State legislatures, and international parliamentary bodies.
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