Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die, Ansari unhappy over bedlam

Ansari held both the treasury and opposition benches responsible for the bedlam

New Delhi, Dec 16: The Rajya Sabha was on Friday adjourned sine die after an emotional speech by Chairman Hamid Ansari, who voiced anguish over disruptions of the house during the entire winter session.

"The 241st session that commenced on November 16 comes to a close today," Ansari told the members.

"I had fervently hoped that I would not have to repeat what I said at the conclusion of the 221st session in December 2013.

"My hope stands belied. Regular and continuous disruptions characterized the session. The symbolism of dignified protest so essential for orderly conduct of parliamentary proceedings was abandoned," he said.

Ansari held both the treasury and opposition benches responsible for the bedlam.

"Regular and continuous disruptions signify this session... The rules about displaying placards and shouting slogans were ignored by all sections of the house," Ansari said.

"This deprived members of the opportunity to seek accountability of the executive through questions and discussions on matters of public interest."

He, however, mentioned there was a useful discussion on demonetisation on November 16 and 24 but it remained inconclusive.

The house also passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2014.

IANS