Decorum, debate on Ansari agenda

While Leader of the Opposition Jaswant Singh used the opportunity to criticise the treasury benches, Independent and nominated MPs, smaller regional parties pleaded with Ansari to give them adequate opportunities to speak up on important issues as they represent the states and the common man. Former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan pointed out that the Upper House was 8220;supposed to represent states, not parties8221;.

Initiating the round of congratulatory speeches that ended with recently nominated member Kapila Vatsayan, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed confidence in Ansari8217;s wide-ranging experience as a diplomat and an educationist. He said it would 8220;provide guidance and balance to the proceedings of the House8221;.

The PM also expressed concern over the repeated disruptions in the House and the 8220;regrettable unwillingness8221; of the members to engage in informed discussion. 8220;I hope we can restore to this House a sense of decorum that is expected of the Elders,8221; he said.