Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised the events surrounding the 1975 Emergency declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, describing it as a moment when constitutional norms were severely disregarded.
He highlighted that on June 26, 1975, Indira Gandhi unilaterally convened a cabinet meeting to retrospectively validate her decision, which he characterised as an act of constitutional trampling. Rijiju mentioned about the importance of preventing such actions in the future, citing a resolution passed in Parliament to safeguard against any similar disregard for constitutional principles.
Regarding the election of the Lok Sabha Speaker, Rijiju clarified procedural aspects, stating that the member proposing the motion must formally request a division of votes. He noted that despite readiness on their part, the lack of a formal request prevented the division of votes during the election process.
Rijiju expressed disappointment over the Congress party’s decision to nominate a candidate for the Speaker’s post, breaking with the tradition of unanimous elections to this significant parliamentary role. He highlighted the Speaker’s role in serving the entire House impartially and historically emphasised the tradition of unity in such elections.