By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 17: Opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) president and Nongthymmai MLA Charles Pyngrope on Tuesday accused the government of deviating from established rules of conduct, directly taking on Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma over a remark made on the floor of the House.
Immediately after Question Hour, Pyngrope rose on a point of order, stating that the proceedings had strayed from the prescribed Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business. Referring to the rule book, he sought to know under which ruling the reference had been made and pointed out that, during his reply on the Education Department, the Chief Minister had addressed the Speaker as “Mr Thomas”.
Pyngrope maintained that such a reference to the Chair constituted an irregularity that required correction. He indicated that while the remark may have been made during an exhaustive reply, the specific expression “Mr Thomas” ought to be expunged from the official records so that it does not form part of the proceedings of the House.
He underscored that his intervention was aimed at safeguarding decorum and ensuring that established parliamentary norms are not diluted.
Responding to the objection, Assembly Speaker Thomas A. Sangma said that he would examine the matter and get back.
In a brief lighter moment, the Chief Minister remarked that, if necessary, the name could be changed to “Conrad”, triggering laughter in the House. However, Opposition Leader Mukul Sangma was heard asserting that the issue was not a matter of joke.
Clarifying his position, the Chief Minister said that he accepted the concern raised and thanked the member for bringing it to his notice. He stated that decorum and the rules of the House must be respected and conveyed that the final decision on the matter would rest with the Speaker.
He added that his earlier remarks were intended to make a broader point regarding the issue of adult schools.
The Speaker reiterated that the issue would be duly examined.
