Speaker to seek parties' views on shifting Question Hour

Says she approves of caste-based census

With several disruptions affecting the Question Hour during the Budget session of Parliament, Speaker Meira Kumar today said she would seek views of all parties over shifting its timing.

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"I have several ideas in mind. However, I will speak to all the parties on whether the Question Hour needs to be shifted (from its 11 am slot)," she told reporters outside her office after the conclusion of the Budget Session.

"Now as the session has ended, I will consult all political parties on this issue... Very few questions were asked during the session. Since the government has an accountability towards Parliament, therefore it is vital that questions are asked," Kumar said.

On government's assurance that it will soon take a decision in the cabinet on caste-based census and what she thought of it, Kumar said, "it is good... Feelings are in favour of a caste-based census. It is a reality that we have a caste-based society and we cannot ignore it. But at the same time we all hope to see a day when a casteless society will emerge."

Overall, the session was satisfactory, as several bills were introduced and passed, she said. Lively discussions took place and it ended on a positive note, the Speaker said.

"Disruptions, however, are a cause of concern. I am concerned about them and a majority of MPs are also concerned about this problem. I mentioned this in my speech also and hope that it will not happen in the future. However, it is a positive aspect that most of the MPs too are concerned about it and this makes me hopeful about future," she said.