Title: Rajya Sabha Vice President Removes Extra Break for Namaz, Sparks Controversy
Introduction
In a significant development, Rajya Sabha Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has made a decision to remove the extra 30-minute break given for Namaz on Fridays in the Rajya Sabha. The move has ignited a wave of controversy and debate among lawmakers and citizens alike. This decision comes as part of a series of rule changes implemented by Dhankhar, aiming to streamline the functioning of the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
Background
According to the rulebook, the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, sits from 11 AM to 1 PM, takes a break for lunch, and then resumes from 2 PM to 6 PM. In the past, a 30-minute break was granted on Fridays to allow Muslim members to offer their midday prayers, known as Namaz. However, Vice President Dhankhar has now eliminated this additional break, citing the need for a more efficient use of time and resources.
Controversy and Criticism
The decision has been met with mixed reactions from various quarters. Supporters argue that the move will help maintain the sanctity of the parliamentary schedule while ensuring that all members are treated equally, regardless of their religious beliefs. They argue that the Rajya Sabha should be a platform for legislative discussions rather than catering to individual religious practices.
However, critics argue that this decision undermines the principles of secularism and religious freedom. They assert that providing a dedicated break for Namaz was a small but important gesture towards religious inclusivity and respect for diversity. Removing this break, they argue, sends a message that certain religious practices are less important or even marginalized within the political sphere.
Political Implications
The decision has also sparked political debates, with opposition parties accusing Vice President Dhankhar of displaying a biased approach towards religious minorities. They argue that this move disproportionately affects Muslim members and sets a dangerous precedent for the future. Some opposition lawmakers have threatened to boycott the Rajya Sabha sessions in protest against the decision.
On the other hand, supporters of Dhankhar’s decision argue that the move was taken in line with the principles of a secular state and equal treatment for all. They believe that the decision will help in streamlining the legislative process and ensure that lawmakers focus on their parliamentary duties without unnecessary interruptions.
Conclusion
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s decision to remove the extra 30-minute break for Namaz on Fridays in the Rajya Sabha has ignited a heated debate on the balance between religious practices and parliamentary functioning. While some see this decision as a step towards a more efficient legislative process, others view it as a violation of religious freedom and a threat to the principles of secularism. As the controversy continues, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the functioning of the Rajya Sabha and the broader discourse on religious inclusivity in Indian politics..
BIG BREAKING NEWS – Rajya Sabha Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar removes extra 30-minute break given for Namaz on Fridays in Rajya Sabha, RULES CHANGED BY HIM
As per the rulebook, the Rajya Sabha sits from 11 AM to 1 PM, and then from 2 PM to 6 PM, giving one hour lunch… pic.twitter.com/75KWQImXZ6
— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) December 10, 2023
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@TimesAlgebraIND said BIG BREAKING NEWS – Rajya Sabha Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar removes extra 30-minute break given for Namaz on Fridays in Rajya Sabha, RULES CHANGED BY HIM As per the rulebook, the Rajya Sabha sits from 11 AM to 1 PM, and then from 2 PM to 6 PM, giving one hour lunch… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
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