Pratibha Chauhan
Tribune News Service
Shimla, November 18
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today said a consensus could not be forged among the Speakers of 36 Vidhan Sabhas and Vidhan Parishads on making suitable changes in the anti-defection law during the 82nd All-India Presiding Officers' Conference here.
"Though the report of the CP Joshi committee on anti-defection law was submitted, there was no unanimity on the issue," admitted Birla, who chaired the 3-day conclave which concluded today.
He said further talks would be held on the issue.
"A resolution has been passed at the conference, desiring that there should be no disruptions during the President's or Governor's Address, Budget presentations and during question hour in the legislatures," said the LS Speaker.
The Speakers and Deputy Speakers have been requested to take up the matter with the political parties in their states to seek their consent on the issue, he added.
Sharing the recommendations of the conference, Birla said a resolution had also been adopted, urging all legislatures across the country to explore the possibility of introducing zero hour. "Having a provision for zero hour will provide opportunity to the members to raise public issues concerning their constituencies," he said.
The issue will have to be deliberated upon by representatives of all political parties in every state to arrive at a consensus. Agreeing that Speaker must remain neutral and refrain from political activities, Birla observed: "We all must respect this tradition as it is only then that people will have faith in legislatures and democracy will be strengthened."
Resolutions passed at conclave
- There mustn't be disruptions during Prez Address, Budget
- Legislatures must explore introducing zero hour
