After logjam, time to review need for Rajya Sabha: K T Thomas
Speaking at a function in Kochi, Thomas recalled that the Rajya Sabha chairman cannot take any disciplinary action against members who continuously block proceedings.
THRISSUR: Former Supreme Court judge K T Thomas on Friday said it was time to reconsider the need of the Rajya Sabha if this "indirectly elected body" continues to be used for "stalling the law-making process" and "blocking development" through frequent disruptions.
Union minister Arun Jaitley, who present at the function, welcomed the views of Justice (retd) Thomas. The minister recalled that when such a situation arose in the UK, they introduced an amendment limiting the powers of the House of Lords.
Speaking at a function in Kochi, Thomas recalled that the Rajya Sabha chairman cannot take any disciplinary action against members who continuously block proceedings.
"What's the point in continuing with a body if its presiding officer doesn't have the powers of even an umpire in the playground?" he asked.
Recalling that the country had inherited the bicameral system from the UK, the former SC judge said the body needs be retained only if its effective functions are ensured through appropriate legal provisions.
"For instance, if a member is found to be continuously blocking the proceedings of the House, he or she must be expelled for that session," Thomas said. "If the member continues the disruptive practice he or she must be disqualified. A provision to appeal in the Supreme Court against such disqualification could also be made to avert its partisan usage," Justice Thomas said.
Union minister Arun Jaitley, who present at the function, welcomed the views of Justice (retd) Thomas. The minister recalled that when such a situation arose in the UK, they introduced an amendment limiting the powers of the House of Lords.
Speaking at a function in Kochi, Thomas recalled that the Rajya Sabha chairman cannot take any disciplinary action against members who continuously block proceedings.
"What's the point in continuing with a body if its presiding officer doesn't have the powers of even an umpire in the playground?" he asked.
Recalling that the country had inherited the bicameral system from the UK, the former SC judge said the body needs be retained only if its effective functions are ensured through appropriate legal provisions.
"For instance, if a member is found to be continuously blocking the proceedings of the House, he or she must be expelled for that session," Thomas said. "If the member continues the disruptive practice he or she must be disqualified. A provision to appeal in the Supreme Court against such disqualification could also be made to avert its partisan usage," Justice Thomas said.
"After the amendment, the House of Lords can return any legislation passed by the House of Commons but it will become a law if the Commons approve it again," Jaitley said.