The Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, Vasudev Devnani, expressed strong displeasure over the absence of several Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) during the crucial Question Hour session on Friday. The Speaker publicly called out the missing legislators, stressing that their absence undermines the functioning of the Assembly and weakens democratic accountability.

The incident occurred during the morning proceedings when several questions listed on the agenda could not be taken up because the concerned MLAs were not present in the House to raise them.

Speaker Questions MLAs’ Commitment

During the session, Speaker Vasudev Devnani sharply criticised the absenteeism of legislators and reminded them that attending the Assembly, especially during Question Hour, is one of their most important responsibilities.

He pointed out that the Question Hour provides MLAs with a key opportunity to raise issues related to governance, development, and public welfare before the government. When members fail to attend, it wastes the time of ministers, officials, and the entire Assembly.

Devnani warned that repeated absence from such an important part of the legislative process could damage the credibility of the Assembly and affect the public’s trust in elected representatives.

Importance of Question Hour

The Question Hour is considered one of the most significant segments of legislative proceedings. During this time, MLAs question ministers about government policies, administrative decisions, and public issues.

Through these questions, the government is held accountable for its actions and decisions. It also allows lawmakers to highlight the problems faced by their constituencies and seek solutions from the concerned departments.

In the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, like other legislative bodies across India, Question Hour plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and democratic oversight.

Concerns Over Legislative Discipline

The Speaker noted that when MLAs who have submitted questions do not attend the House, it disrupts the smooth conduct of proceedings. In several instances, ministers had prepared detailed responses but were unable to present them because the concerned legislators were absent.

Devnani emphasized that such negligence not only wastes valuable Assembly time but also reflects poorly on the seriousness of the lawmakers toward their duties.

He urged all members to maintain discipline and ensure their presence when questions submitted by them are scheduled to be taken up.

Appeal to MLAs for Responsible Participation

The Speaker appealed to all legislators to treat Assembly proceedings with the seriousness they deserve. He reminded them that they are accountable to the people who elected them and must represent their concerns effectively within the House.

According to Devnani, active participation in debates, discussions, and Question Hour is essential for strengthening democratic governance and improving policy decisions.

Assembly Proceedings Continue

Despite the brief disruption, the proceedings of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly continued with other scheduled discussions and government responses.

Political observers say the Speaker’s remarks highlight a recurring issue in many legislative bodies across India—low attendance during important sessions. Experts believe stricter monitoring and greater accountability may be necessary to ensure that lawmakers participate fully in legislative work.

The incident has once again sparked debate about the need for stronger legislative discipline and greater responsibility among elected representatives to ensure the effective functioning of democratic institutions.