STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has assured the State Assembly that he'll break with tradition when it comes to adjournment motion if that is moved through the proper device.
There has been a tradition of sorts that when the Opposition moves an adjournment motion on an issue, the ruling party comes with some arguments to prove that the need for such a discussion doesn't arise. When the Speaker doesn't admit the motion, the Opposition either tries to stall the proceedings of the House or stages a walkout or both in protest.
An adjournment motion is an extraordinary procedure which, if admitted, leads to setting aside the normal business of the House for discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance.
Speaking on the Governor's address to the State Assembly on Saturday, the Chief Minister said, "If the Opposition moves an adjournment motion in the proper device to discuss an issue, the Government is ready to discuss that. Admitting the adjournment motion of the Opposition for discussion doesn't mean the defeat of the Government. If the Opposition moves it in the proper device, we'll hear what they want to say. If they give any suggestions, we've no problem accepting them. We want a strong Opposition in the House.
"Nobody opposed, boycotted and raised objections to the Governor's address to the House today. It's a good sign of democracy. For this, I thank the Opposition members."
Speaking on the occasion, Rakibul Hussain of the Congress said, "We'll do a constructive discussion on the Government's works. We're ready to extend help for the smooth functioning of the Government. The Government should also listen to what the Opposition says."
AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam said, "The Opposition has many issues to discuss on the floor of the House. However, there's little time for that. My suggestion is that the House should be in session at least for 45 days a year."
Speaker Biswajit Daimary said, "It's a good message from today that there has been no ruckus in the House during the Governor's speech. I'll try to give equal dignity to all members of the House."