The Rajya Sabha started on a sombre note on Wednesday, with an obituary reference to political commentator and former member of the House Cho Ramaswamy.
But soon after, the issue of demonetisation continued to disrupt both the Houses.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flayed the Opposition for its “undemocratic” act of not allowing a debate on the issue even as he asserted that the “major reform” exercise had the support of the people.
In his remarks made at a BJP Parliamentary Party meeting, he said Parliament has debated a number of government decisions, which had caused tensions and social conflict, but it was now deadlocked by rival parties over a “constructive decision” like demonetisation.
Updates:
LOK SABHA | 12.49 P.M.
A Shiv Sena MP objects to the RBI’s proposal for introducing Islamic Banking system. He says such banking-related decision on the basis of religion should not be taken. He said instead rules should be framed in such a way as to facilitate use by Muslim costumers.
The House is adjourned till 2 p.m.
LOK SABHA SEES A REQUEST | 12.18 P.M.
Trinamool MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay requests if December 12 may be declared a holiday on account of Prophet Mohammad’ birthday.
Parliamentary Affairs Mininster Ananth Kumar says, “Monday is a working day, we have great regard for Prophet Mohammad, a holiday has been declared on December 13..if Opposition wants we can start discussion on demonetisation.” And, the slogans begin.
LOK SABHA | 12.05 A.M.
The House resumes. Speaker disallows notices for Adjournment Motion, even as Opposition members raise slogans. Some of them even rush to the Well of the House.
BOTH THE HOUSES ADJOURNED TILL NOON
LOK SABHA | 11.33 A.M.
Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad speaks: There were discrepancies in project implementations…that is why we came to power. We will ensure that the discrepancies are removed during the implementation of the second phase of e-court project.
E-filing by lawyers is being encouraged. Today, the court dates and other court related information is communicated through mobile phones. Our government is taking all steps to ensure that our cyber security mechanism is strong, other suggestions are also being considered.
RAJYA SABHA | 11.31 A.M.
When a discussion is on under 267 on a substantive issue, how are you allowing them to raise it in Zero Hour? Jaitley asks.
Mr. Kurien responds: The FM is right. When discussion is on, why aren’t we doing it? The Treasury benches are shouting slogans.
LOK SABHA | 11.16 A.M.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar: “I don’t understand why the Congress, the Trinamool Congress and the Left parties are causing disruption. Mr. Modi has been voted No.1 in the world (referring to Time Magazine poll reader’s poll), we have requested several times, but they are not willing to discuss.”
On exchange of prisoners, Minister of State for External Affairs says: “Pakistan treats inadvertent crossing of border as violation. We are pursuing the cases of fishermen who crossed over inadvertently and been detained by Pakistan.” He says 260 fishermen are in Pakistan Jails, over 40 boats have been seized by Pakistani forces.
The last visit of retired judges of both sides for checking conditions of jails took place in 2013. Thereafter, Pakistan has not responded to our repeated requests for the visits, he says.
RAJYA SABHA | 11.11 A.M.
Congress leader Ghulam Nabi says the demonetisation exercise has claimed 84 people and some have even committed suicide.
He resumes. “The Govt. did not make arrangements for money beforehand. Who is responsible? This House should fix responsibility.”
My second question is: “Revenue secretary has said most currency will come back. So, where is the black money? Are the hiding something? Tell the House every day!” Why is there no money in ATMs, if the govt.’s claim that there is enough money in banks is correct?Dont play with people’s feelings.”
LOK SABHA | 11.08 A.M.
The House resumes. And, the Question Hour begins. Speaker says she will not allow daily disruptions, amid Opposition ‘s demand for voting and debate on demonetisation.
