"Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania interacts with the media in Shimla on Thursday."
In a media briefing held in Shimla on Thursday, Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Pathania addressed several key matters concerning the state assembly’s proceedings, including the ongoing issue of contempt notices served to nine BJP legislators for their conduct inside the house.
The Speaker clarified that while the matter is under review, there is no set time frame for a decision to be made. Pathania emphasized that the case marks a first in the state’s legislative history, with such a contempt case never having been registered before. The decision, however, will be made in due course, keeping in mind the importance of setting a precedent for future conduct within the assembly.
Unprecedented Contempt Case: A Benchmark Decision
“This case is unprecedented,” Speaker Pathania remarked, referring to the contempt notices served to the nine BJP legislators. “We still have three more years of the current legislative term, and while there is no fixed timeline, the issue will be resolved in a reasonable time frame.”
Pathania further explained that although the Vidhan Sabha has a Privilege Committee that handles issues of privilege and misconduct, the matter at hand is a unique one, requiring careful consideration. The Speaker’s statement suggests that the decision will not only reflect on the current situation but could also set a significant benchmark for future conduct in the Himachal Pradesh assembly.
Privilege Motion Against BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan
In addition to the contempt case, Speaker Pathania also confirmed that a Privilege Motion had been moved against BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan. Pathania stated that Mahajan had responded to the motion, and the matter is being reviewed in accordance with the established procedures.
Special Session of the Himachal Vidhan Sabha Under Consideration
Another key issue raised during the press interaction was the possibility of convening a special in-camera session of the Himachal Vidhan Sabha. Pathania suggested that such a session would allow lawmakers to discuss critical issues of state interest that may not be appropriate for public discussion. He expressed his intent to personally approach both Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur to discuss the convening of this special session.
“The rules for such a session exist, and I believe it is important for the legislative process to address sensitive state issues through such a platform,” said Pathania.
Vidhan Sabha Calendar: 27 Sittings Planned for the Year
On the schedule for the upcoming sessions, Pathania revealed that the Himachal Vidhan Sabha will hold a total of 27 sittings this year. This includes 12 sittings during the budget session, 11 during the monsoon session, and a four-day winter session to be held in Dharamsala at Tapovan from December 18 to 21.
The Speaker assured that despite the challenges posed by various ongoing issues, the assembly’s business will continue to run smoothly, with ample time allocated for discussions and decision-making on the state’s key concerns.
Looking Ahead: Governance and Legislative Transparency
Kuldeep Pathania’s statements reflect his ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability within the legislative process. With significant decisions regarding the conduct of elected representatives and the smooth functioning of the assembly on the horizon, these developments underscore the importance of maintaining legislative integrity while addressing pressing matters for the people of Himachal Pradesh.
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