It refers to Deputy Chairperson of Karnatak Legislative Council SL Dharme Gowda having committed suicide on 29.12.2020 because of his being disturbed on happenings in the Council on 15.12.2020. There have been incidents of bitter fights earlier also in some state-assemblies leading even to blood-baths. There have been incidents when absconding members of Legislative Houses wanted for violation of law disappeared soon after making their presence registered at floors of the Houses. There have also been incidents where members have deliberately shown disrespect to national song. Membership of Rajya Sabha to medically unfit George Fernandes was once approved even though RTI response revealed that his oath for membership of Rajya Sabha was read by his colleague, just to retain type VIII bungalow in his name. Tearing of bills and frequent adjounments of Houses due to disruption have become common feature.
Concrete steps are necessary to prevent any such incidents at floors of Legislative Houses by abolishing often-misused immunity from law for legislative proceedings both at the Centre and in states so that criminal or civil laws may be applicable on elected representatives for thigs done or said during legislative proceedings.
SUBHASH CHANDRA AGRAWAL