TMC MP suspension of Derek O’Brien for ‘defying the Chair’, continues to remain in Rajya Sabha

TMC MP suspension of Derek O’Brien for ‘defying the Chair’, continues to remain in Rajya Sabha

 

In a recent turn of events, Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament (MP) Derek O’Brien has been suspended from the Rajya Sabha for “defying the Chair.”. Despite the suspension, O’Brien has decided to remain in the Rajya Sabha, raising questions about the consequences of such actions.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O’Brien was suspended from the Rajya Sabha on Thursday for the remainder of the Winter Session. In the Rajya Sabha, TMC MP Derek O’Brien was suspended for ‘gross misconduct’ and ‘defying the Chair’ during the proceedings

The Rajya Sabha chairman had asked TMC MP Derek O’Brien to leave the Rajya Sabha premises, but the politician continued to stay demanding a discussion on the security breach, in which two men jumped from the visitors’ gallery into the Lok Sabha and set off yellow smoke canisters.

Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha proceedings adjourned till 4 p.m. amid opposition sloganeering against the suspension of TMC member Derek O’Brien.

“It is most unfortunate that suspended member Derek O’Brien continues to be present in the House. His conduct has handicapped the House from transacting business.” Rajya Sabha Chairman said

This act of defiance has sparked a debate among political circles, with some questioning the effectiveness of such disciplinary actions. Critics argue that if MPs are allowed to flout the rules and disregard the authority of the Chair without any consequences, it sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the functioning of the parliamentary system.

On the other hand, supporters of O’Brien argue that his actions were justified, as they were in response to what they perceive as an unfair and biased ruling by the Chair. They argue that O’Brien’s suspension was politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissenting voices.

Soon after the House assembled at noon after an initial adjournment, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar named Derek O’Brien and warned him against disrupting the House proceedings and raising slogans in utter disregard of the directions of the Chair.

Accusing TMC MP Derek O’Brien of violating the directions of the chair and disrupting the proceedings of the House, the chairman allowed Leader of the House Piyush Goyal to move a motion in this regard.

The motion was adopted with a voice vote, and the chairman announced that Derek O’Brien would be suspended from the House for the remainder of the session.

Putting the motion to vote, the chair said the same has been adopted with a voice vote.

“The motion is adopted. Derek O’Brien, a member, is suspended for the remaining part of the session,” the chairman announced, with opposition members shouting “no” in chorus.
Derek O’Brien was demanding a discussion on the issue of a breach of Parliament’s security.

In a major security breach on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack on Wednesday, two people—Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D—jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber from the public gallery during Zero Hour, released coloured smoke from canisters and shouted slogans before being overpowered by the MPs

While the debate continues, it is important to understand the role and responsibilities of MPs in the parliamentary system. As elected representatives, MPs are expected to uphold the decorum of the house and respect the authority of the chair. Disruptive behavior and defiance of the rules not only hinder the smooth functioning of the parliament but also erode public trust in the democratic process.

It is worth noting that this is not the first time a member has been suspended from the Rajya Sabha for similar reasons. In the past, several MPs from various political parties have faced disciplinary actions for their behavior in the House. However, the question remains whether such actions are enough to deter future instances of misconduct.

One possible solution could be to strengthen the code of conduct for MPs and introduce stricter penalties for those who violate the rules. This could include longer suspensions, fines, or even disqualification from holding public office. By implementing stronger consequences, the parliamentary system can send a clear message that unruly behavior will not be tolerated.