New Delhi: Amid uproar in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, the “Vote of Thanks” on the President’s Address was passed by voice vote. Traditionally, the Prime Minister responds to the discussion on this motion, but due to the disruptions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was unable to do so this time.
The proceedings were marked by repeated interruptions from opposition members. After an initial adjournment, the session resumed at 12 PM, with Speaker Om Birla presenting the necessary documents and instructing protesting MPs near the Chair not to display banners. The motion, introduced by BJP MP Sarbananda Sonowal and supported by BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, formally expresses gratitude for the President’s address delivered by President Droupadi Murmu on 28 January at the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament.
What is the ‘Vote of Thanks’?
The Vote of Thanks is a key parliamentary procedure in India. Following the President’s address, each House introduces the motion, typically by the ruling party. It allows for wide-ranging debate, and members may propose amendments. At the end of discussions, the Prime Minister or another senior minister responds. The motion is then put to a vote. While it formally expresses appreciation for the President’s address, it also serves as a de facto forum to debate government policies and carries significance similar to a confidence motion.
Parliamentary Chaos:
During the discussion, Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi sought to raise the issue of China-related tensions citing unpublished memoirs of former Army Chief M.M. Naravane, but was not permitted by the Speaker. The session has seen disruptions over the past four days, including the suspension of eight opposition MPs for throwing papers near the Chair.
BJP and other ruling party MPs, including TDP’s G.M. Harish Balyogi and Nishikant Dubey, participated in the debate, while the opposition protested strongly against attempts to restrict references to certain documents and books.
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