Lok Sabha Speaker Laments Disruptions in House

• Lok Sabha’s fifth session adjourned sine die on Aug 21.
• Speaker Om Birla expressed anguish over continuous disruptions.
• Sloganeering, placards termed an “insult” to Parliament’s decorum.
• Planned 120 sitting hours cut short to only 37 hours.

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Aug: The fifth session of the 18th Lok Sabha, which began on July 21, concluded today with Speaker Om Birla voicing sharp concern over repeated disruptions and the deadlock that marred proceedings.

In his valedictory address, Birla expressed anguish over what he described as “planned disruptions” in the House. He said shouting slogans, waving placards, and stalling debates amounted to insults to parliamentary decorum.

“The public has great expectations from their representatives. The House should be used for serious and meaningful discussions on issues of public interest and important legislations,” the Speaker remarked.

Despite repeated appeals, the session saw limited productivity. Against the planned 120 hours of sittings, the House functioned for only 37 hours. Of 419 starred questions listed, only 55 were answered orally due to disruptions.

The session did, however, see some legislative progress. Fourteen government bills were introduced and 12 were passed. Special discussions were held on “Operation Sindoor” (July 28–29), which concluded with a reply by the Prime Minister, and on India’s space achievements (August 18).

Birla reminded members that their conduct and language—both inside Parliament and in public—must remain dignified. “The kind of language and behaviour witnessed in this session was not in keeping with the decorum of Parliament,” he said, urging MPs to set an example for the nation and the world.

The fifth session of the 18th Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die.