Manipur MP Alleges “Serious Infringement” on Parliamentary Rights
Imphal: Manipur Lok Sabha MP A. Bimol Akoijam has claimed that his questions regarding government agreements with insurgent groups in northeastern states were “removed” from the list of starred questions scheduled for March 11.
Akoijam alleged that this incident constitutes a “serious infringement” on his rights and privileges as an elected Member of Parliament.
According to Akoijam, his name was listed 16th on the ballot for starred questions, but when the final list was released, his name was missing. He emphasized that his questions did not violate any rules or concerns regarding admissibility. Akoijam expressed concerns that this incident undermines his constitutionally mandated duty to exercise legislative oversight.
Akoijam met with Speaker Om Birla and the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs to address the issue. He also raised the matter during zero hour and wrote to the secretary general seeking clarification, but received no response. The Speaker has reportedly taken note of the issue and promised to take necessary action the following week.
Akoijam’s questions focused on the rehabilitation of insurgent groups in northeastern states, specifically inquiring about the number of agreements signed with insurgent/armed groups in each state. The incident has sparked concerns about parliamentary rights and the ability of MPs to hold the government accountable.
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