New Speaker in no hurry on HJC MLAs’ case

Talking to reporters,Kuldeep Sharma said he was honoured to have been given the responsibility of the Speaker’s post and would maintain the dignity and honour of the high office. “I understand my duteis and responsibilities. My priority will be to run the House smoothly and maintain the democratic norms and procedures. I will encourage and allow good debates in the House and ensure that the dignity of the House is maintained. I will discourage personal attacks,but will be open to constructive suggestions. I am thankful to the Congress party for showing trust and faith in me,” he said.

Asked if he would like to settle the disqualification issue of the five Janhit Congress MLAs at the earliest,Sharma said he would first study all the previous proceedings in the case before proceeding further. He said he had not set any timeframe for deciding the case. “At this moment,it is not safe for me to comment on the merits or the demerits of the case as I have yet to go through the proceedings,” said Kuldeep Sharma.

On the issue of demand by the Opposition for extending the duration of the Budget session,Sharma said the demand could be considered if there was genuine need of discussion. “For frivolous and loose talk,such a demand from members would not be acceptable to the Chair,” he said.