Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Sunday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is among those with the highest attendance in Parliament, noting that the Prime Minister makes it a point to attend proceedings unless he is travelling abroad or visiting a state for official engagements.
Briefing the media after an all-party meeting convened ahead of the Monsoon Session, the Minister hit out at the Opposition parties’ attempts to create an unnecessary controversy over PM Modi’s presence during proceedings.
“Demanding the Prime Minister’s presence at all times in the House is against established norms,” Mr. Rijiju said. “Whenever questions pertaining to the Prime Minister’s Ministry are scheduled during Question Hour, he is present. He has not missed such proceedings.”
The Minister reiterated the government’s readiness to engage with the Opposition on national issues and pending legislation during the upcoming session. He noted that 51 parties participated in the meeting, with many raising demands for smoother functioning of the House.
Responding to concerns raised by smaller parties over inadequate speaking time, Mr. Rijiju said the matter would be taken up for appropriate redress. “It is the joint responsibility of the government and the Opposition to ensure Parliament functions smoothly,” he said.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament is scheduled to commence on July 21 and will continue till August 21, with 21 sittings planned.
IANS