National Desk
4 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist Research Analysist
In a historic moment, 202 Members of Parliament (MPs) raised various public issues during Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha today. This marks a new record, surpassing the previous high of 161 MPs who spoke during Zero Hour on July 18, 2019. The Lok Sabha Secretariat provided this information, highlighting the increased participation of MPs in discussions on matters of public interest.
The record participation was made possible due to an initiative by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who extended the duration of Zero Hour. According to the Secretariat, “Zero Hour lasted for more than five hours, allowing MPs to raise issues of significant public importance.” The extension gave more members an opportunity to express concerns affecting their constituencies and the nation.
Speaker Om Birla had assured the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of the Lok Sabha that he would ensure time for MPs who wished to highlight pressing issues. His decision to increase Zero Hour’s duration was well-received, as it allowed a large number of representatives to voice their concerns.
The ongoing Budget Session is set to conclude on Friday. With crucial discussions taking place, the extended Zero Hour was a key highlight, reflecting the active engagement of MPs in parliamentary proceedings.
The initiative underscores the importance of parliamentary debates in addressing public grievances and ensuring that lawmakers have the necessary platform to bring attention to key issues affecting their constituencies and the nation as a whole.