Suspension of MPs from the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha

Context: Recently, Rajya Sabha MP Derek O’Brien was suspended from the Rajya Sabha for the remainder of the session under Rule 256.

More on News

• Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha moved a resolution under Rule 192 to refer the issue to the committee of privileges of the Rajya Sabha.
• In 2021 , 12 Opposition members were suspended from the Rajya Sabha for unprecedented acts of misconduct, unruly violent behavior and intentional attacks on security personnel.

Process of Suspension of MPs

Also Read: An MP Expelled From Lok Sabha In Cash For Query Case

Implications of Suspension of MPs

• Prohibited to attend the meetings: . Suspended MPs  are not allowed to  enter the chamber or attend any meetings of the committees.
• No notices : Suspended MPs are not allowed to give any notices  for discussions etc
• No replies to questions: By convention a suspended loses its right to get replies to his her questions.

Revocation of Suspension of MPs

Lok Sabha: 

• The Speaker has the authority to suspend a Member, but the power to lift this suspension is not within her jurisdiction. 
• The House, if it wishes, decides through a motion to revoke the suspension.

Rajya Sabha:

• The House by motion terminates the suspension.

Parliamentary Etiquette

• Rules: MPs are advised to adhere to certain rules of the parliament
  • Examples : Lok sabha rule book says that MPs should not intervene in the speech of others.
• Decorum of the house: Members should members should not shout slogans, display placards, tear up documents in protest, and play a cassette or a tape recorder in the House

Judiciary Role in Suspension of MPs

•  Article 122 says that parliamentary proceedings cannot be enquired in the court of law.

News Source: Economic Times