PM for serious introspection on Parliament functioning

Sounding a word of caution, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today called for serious introspection on the way the Parliament functions as he feels daily disruptions can only lead to public disenchantment.

Sounding a word of caution, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday called for serious introspection on the way the Parliament functions as he feels daily disruptions can only lead to public disenchantment.

Calling for serious introspection, Singh said the manner in which Parliamentarians have conducted themselves, especially over the past couple of years, has created a sense of frustration and disillusionment among the people.

"The daily routine of disruptions, adjournments and shouting in the House are leading many outside to question the efficacy of this institution and its place in public affairs," he said addressing the Lok Sabha.

Asking every MP to lead by example to restore the prestige of this institution, Singh said "we need to resolve that the Rules of Procedure and Conduct that we have collectively evolved would be honoured in letter and spirit."

"Unless we can find some way to resolve the growing impasse in the functioning of Parliament, public disenchantment will only grow," the Prime Minister said.

His remarks come at a time when the country has witnessed some social initiatives taking up campaigns on matters of public interest and often lampooning the political class.

"I believe that we should also reflect on how we should conduct the affairs of the State in which each of us plays a responsible role," Singh said.