New Delhi, Aug 7: Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday asserted in the Lok Sabha that the Opposition cannot dictate which Union Minister should appear in the House to respond to a particular issue, maintaining that it is the prerogative of the government to decide who will answer on its behalf.
Responding during the ongoing stalemate in Parliament, Rijiju said the government is fully prepared for discussion on issues raised by the Opposition, but stressed that parliamentary procedures and constitutional conventions do not permit the Opposition to insist on a specific minister replying to a debate.
“The Opposition cannot dictate which minister will come to the House and respond. It is the government’s decision to decide which minister will reply,” Rijiju said, while urging Opposition members to allow normal functioning of the Lok Sabha.
The Parliamentary Affairs Minister said repeated disruptions have prevented meaningful legislative business and discussions, despite the government’s willingness to engage on important national issues. He appealed to all political parties to uphold the dignity of Parliament by participating in debates instead of obstructing proceedings.
The remarks came amid persistent protests by Opposition parties demanding that senior ministers, including the Union Home Minister, personally respond to issues raised in the House. The government, however, maintained that under parliamentary practice, it has the authority to nominate any competent minister to answer questions or reply to debates.
Rijiju reiterated that Parliament is a forum for constructive debate and legislative work, and called upon the Opposition to cooperate in ensuring smooth functioning of both Houses so that pending public business and key legislations can be taken up without further disruption. (KNC)
