Maharashtra: MLAs must keep off mobiles, whatsapp in Assembly

Bapat who has already given lessons to the newly elected members have now decided to issue a written guidelines on dos and don’ts in the assembly. In a candid admission he said, “At present we have 153 new MLAs who are not well versed with the rules .”

Citing an example he said, “ When an individual is speaking it mandates the other member should not walk past him or her. As per the norms nobody should cross between the MLA (when he/ she speaking) and the Speaker seated on the highest pedestal in the assembly.”

However, MLAs and even ministers are often seen walking casually unmindful of the laid rules. What is interesting to note in this session is former deputy minister Ajit Pawar has assumed the role of a “headmaster”. If any member or minster faults, Pawar rises on his legs to point out violation of rules. He always has support of another senior former NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal who has mastered the art of code of conduct.

Although many things complained to the parliamentary affairs ministers find no mention in the guidelines, verbally it has been conveyed to the party members by their respective leaders.

“ The members should not operate internet, whatsapp, e-mail on their mobile phones inside the state legislative assembly,” Bapat has warned. The members should express their reverence to the Speaker of the state assembly by doing “Namaskar” before taking their seat in the assembly or leaving assembly. Now, this was pointed to the ruling benches by Pawar who wondered how members just walk in and out without observing some courtesy.

However, the complains apply to members across the party lines for throwing rules to the winds.

Bapat admits, “In older days these simple rules were sacrosanct and members observed them diligently.” Among many things which are not mentioned but orally conveyed includes not to walk in the assembly keeping hands in the pockets. Or not to brush your hair or indulge in any hair dressing seated inside the assembly.

Now, even munching any eatables or savoring chocolates or chewingum inside the assembly is prohibited. But often one has noticed senior leaders handing over toffees to the members, a former NCP minister said in an honest confession. Adding, “After a long spell of debate sometimes one casually pops a small peppermint or chewingum.. which is also wrong.”

The list of code of conduct runs long. It says when Speaker is standing the members should take their seat. The Speaker’s ruling is final and members should not argue. Members should not bring inside assembly any placard, posters or sport clothes with political party’s symbol. The members should not speak unless given permission by the
Speaker.