Lok Sabha witnesses disruptions, passes two bills amid din

New Delhi, Aug 4 (FN Agency) Lok Sabha once again witnessed repeated adjournments, and two Bills were passed amid din as Opposition members continued protests demanding government statement on Pegasus issue. The Lower House saw two adjournments in the first half, both within minutes of the House meeting. At 1400 hrs, when the House assembled, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav moved The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Bill, which was passed by voice vote amid din without any debate in around 10 minutes. This Bill seeks to constitute a Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas for better coordination, research, identification and resolution of problems surrounding the air quality index.

Opposition MPs, who had trooped near the well of the House, continued raising slogans, as the Chair put the Bill to vote. Amendments were also submitted by some Opposition MPs, but were all defeated. The legislation was passed through voice vote. The House was then adjourned till 1530 hrs. When the House met again at 1530 hrs, The Coconut Development Board (Amendment) Bill was passed in a similar manner. Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said democracy being murdered by passing legislations without discussion. The House was then adjourned for the day.The Monsoon Session of Parliament which started on July 19, has been witnessing a stalemate, with the Opposition protesting over issues like Pegasus snooping controversy, farm laws and price rise.The Government has blamed the Opposition for stalling the Parliament. Opposition leaders have meanwhile said that the government is blocking the proceedings by not agreeing for a debate on the Pegasus issue. On Wednesday, Opposition leaders issued a joint statement demanding a debate on the Pegasus controversy to be answered by Home Minister Amit Shah. They also demanded a debate on farm laws and farmers’ protests in both Houses.