The stormy first session of the 18th Lok Sabha began last week in Hyderabad. Rahul Gandhi, a Congress leader, was appointed as the Leader of the Opposition. This is a proud moment for Gandhi, as he has finally received a public post after a long wait.
The Parliament is considered the temple of our democracy and the largest democracy in the world. However, with this distinction comes a huge responsibility. Unfortunately, our Parliament has seen a decline in democratic values over the years.
Currently, the Parliament includes two known terrorists who were elected with the support of banned outfit Khalistanis. One member is the son of Beant Singh, who assassinated former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Beant Singh is considered a hero by the Sikh community for avenging the Operation Blue Star.
On the other hand, some members like Asaduddin Owaisi from Hyderabad and cricketer Yousuf Pathan from West Bengal have been elected based on their community’s support. This highlights a trend of voting based on religious or community lines.
Despite rules outlining proper conduct in Parliament, some members continue to engage in unruly behavior. This behavior tarnishes the image of Indian democracy and democratic institutions.
The Supreme Court recently ruled that accused individuals cannot request transfer of cases involving dishonour of cheques under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. In Maldives, a minister has been arrested for allegedly using black magic on the President.
In other news, the Jharkhand High Court ordered the state government to compensate a shop owner for an illegal demolition. Meanwhile, the Telangana High Court dismissed a petition against Chief Minister Revanth Reddy regarding complaints about hostel conditions at Osmania University.
Gujarat police also made headlines by arresting a wanted accused in a petrol pump robbery case after 43 years.
