In a significant stride towards enhancing decorum and professionalism, the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly is poised to introduce a set of new rules that will redefine the conduct and behavior of its members within the hallowed chambers. These rules, titled the “Rules of Procedures and Conduct of Business of Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, 2023,” are set to replace the outdated “Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of UP Legislative Assembly, 1958,” and are expected to pave the way for more effective and dignified legislative proceedings.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Speaker of the Assembly, Satish Mahana, aims to bring the legislative process in line with modern practices while ensuring that members uphold the sanctity of the Assembly. Scheduled for discussion on Wednesday, the proposed rules are anticipated to receive swift approval, ushering in a new era of discipline and decorum within the Assembly.
Key highlights of the proposed rules include a ban on bringing mobile phones into the House, prohibiting the act of tearing documents, and addressing any display of disrespect towards the Speaker. The restrictions on tearing documents are seen as a fundamental step towards preserving the sanctity of legislative materials and promoting a more orderly environment for constructive debate.
To instill a culture of respect and professionalism, legislators will be required to refrain from pointing towards anyone in the gallery while speaking and from standing or sitting in a manner that shows their back to the Speaker. The prohibition of weapons within the House is expected to bolster safety and security, creating an atmosphere conducive to focused discussions and legislative action.
In a comprehensive approach that extends beyond the Assembly chamber, the proposed rules also lay down guidelines for conduct outside the chamber. MLAs will be urged to refrain from disruptive behaviors such as smoking, loud conversations, or boisterous laughter in the lobby, underlining a commitment to a more disciplined approach to the legislative process.
Gestures of respect are also emphasized in the proposed rules. Members will be required to bow towards the Speaker’s chair when entering or leaving the House, as well as when sitting or rising from their seats. These seemingly small acts of reverence contribute significantly to maintaining an atmosphere of decorum and professionalism among lawmakers.
The changes proposed aren’t limited to behavioral expectations; administrative procedures are also set to undergo transformation. The timeline for summoning a legislative session is set to be streamlined, with a reduced notice period of seven days instead of the current 14. This adjustment is anticipated to enhance efficiency and facilitate timely legislative deliberations.
In an effort to minimize distractions and streamline the legislative process, members will no longer be allowed to bring literature, questionnaires, books, or press materials into the House. Additionally, the distribution of unrelated slips during proceedings will be curtailed, allowing for a more focused and efficient legislative discourse.
Transparency and accessibility also receive a boost in the proposed rules, with the mandate for the principal secretary of the legislative assembly to provide a daily list of activities to MLAs. This initiative ensures that members remain informed about the day’s agenda, enabling them to actively and effectively participate in the proceedings.
The genesis of these new rules traces back to a disruption that occurred last year when an MLA from the Samajwadi Party live-streamed Assembly proceedings on Facebook. This incident, which led to the MLA’s expulsion, underscores the need for measures that safeguard the decorum of the Assembly and prevent such disruptions in the future.
Uttar Pradesh, boasting a 403-member legislative assembly, stands as one of India’s most populous states. The impending implementation of these new rules holds the promise of a more disciplined and professional atmosphere within the Assembly, where lawmakers can devote their energies to impactful debates and legislation that directly benefit the state and its citizens.
As the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly gears up to adopt the new rules, it is evident that these measures will usher in a more organized and dignified environment. By strictly adhering to guidelines that discourage document tearing, mobile phone usage, and disrespectful conduct, the Assembly is poised to maintain an atmosphere of decorum and professionalism at all times. These proposed rules mark a notable stride towards ensuring effective legislative proceedings and reinforcing the esteemed stature of the Assembly.
