Houseful Surprise
Low attendance of MPs in the Houses during sessions has always been a contentious topic. So when first-timers had near 100 per cent participation in a training session last weekend, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu could not help but say: “I can’t believe my eyes. I have never seen full participation like this even when important issues are being discussed in the House.” This was much to the chuckle of fresher MPs. Naidu also wished that they continue the same enthusiasm through the sessions.
Chaiwala MP
Last week, some MPs were gasping for a special cuppa, and were looking around for a particular ‘chaiwala’ in the Central Hall of Parliament. The sought-after man was none other than actor-turned-nominated MP Suresh Gopi. He carries special tea bags to the House every day and makes his tea and for those who want some. A good number of MPs have got used to his ‘special’ brew that on a day when Gopi is not there, his absence is felt.
Point and Order
He is known for his colourful attire, but Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale has also been proving to be a stress buster in the Rajya Sabha when things become too heated between the Opposition and treasury benches. During a recent discussion when a member got up to quote a ‘Point of Order’, the minister said, “How can there be a point when there is no order?” House members burst into peals of laughter.
Justified Absence
There was much debate on why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not in the Rajya Sabha during the passage of the crucial Goods and Services Tax Bill. A senior minister explained that the PM’s absence was ensured. Not being a member of the Upper House, he would have had to walk out when division voting was called for, which would be embarrassing.
Prabhu Vs Sushma
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu these days is very active on social media and, according to railway officials, is giving a tough competition to Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who is the most active minister on Twitter. While Swaraj has been using the platform for communicating with Indians stuck abroad or those in distress, Prabhu has been busy helping troubled train passengers. A railway official quipped that Prabhu’s outreach is more as many people travel by train every day.