In India, approximately 92 Members of Parliament have been suspended simultaneously, encompassing both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha members. The suspension of MPs is not a novel occurrence; even during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, 63 MPs were suspended collectively, yet it didn’t stir significant political upheaval.
However, in the current Modi government, when both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MPs – totaling 141 (95 Lok Sabha and 46 Rajya Sabha members) – faced suspension simultaneously, it sparked widespread political outcry.
Political parties have elevated the issue of parliamentary suspension as a crucial matter. Let’s delve into the regulations surrounding the suspension of Parliament.
Under which rules of the constitution can MPs be suspended?
As per the architects of the constitution, there are five specific rules that govern the suspension of MPs, three for the Lok Sabha and two for the Rajya Sabha.
Regarding the Lok Sabha, Rule 373 states that if any member obstructs the functioning of the house, they can be suspended or sent out of the session for a certain period.
Additionally, Rule 374 allows for the suspension of a member if they disregard the chair’s authority and indulge in unruly behavior.
Furthermore, a new provision was added under Rule 374A on December 5, 2001, explicitly stating that if a member indulges in unruly behavior near the chair’s seat, they can also be suspended as per the constitutional provision.
Moving on to the Rajya Sabha, Rule 255 asserts that if a member behaves inappropriately with the chairman or their conduct is deemed unacceptable, the chairman, under Rule 256, can expel them from the session.
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