advice given on respectful behavior

The Supreme Court has expressed deep concern over the intemperate conduct of leaders in Parliament and Assemblies. During the hearing of a case related to Bihar on Monday, the top court said that many leaders have forgotten how to behave respectfully while expressing criticism and disagreement.

The bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh urged the members of the House to maintain respect for each other. This comment was made during the hearing on a petition by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Sunil Kumar Singh. The petition challenged the decision of the Bihar Legislative Council, in which Singh was expelled on charges of misbehavior in the House and mimicking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Supreme Court’s strong comment

‘Criticize respectfully’
The Supreme Court said that respectful language and behavior should be followed while expressing criticism and disagreement. The court reminded that in a democracy there should be an ideal mode of dissent.

Abuse of Freedom of Speech
Singh’s lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi advocated freedom of expression in the House. On this the court said,
“Is this the exercise of freedom of speech inside the House? Do you use such language against your opponents?”

Singhvi denied the use of such language and said that only suspension was done when another member used objectionable language, but Sunil Kumar Singh was expelled.

What are the allegations against Sunil Kumar Singh?

Sunil Kumar Singh is accused of making fun of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar by mimicking him during the budget session of Bihar Legislative Council.

• Misbehavior case: Misbehavior and inappropriate language was used against the Chief Minister during the discussion on the Governor’s address.
• Inquiry Committee Report: The committee formed to investigate the case found the allegations against Singh to be true after examining the video evidence.
• Membership cancelled: Bihar Legislative Council Deputy Chairman Ramvachan Rai proposed to cancel Singh’s membership on the recommendation of the Ethics Committee.

election confusion

After Singh’s expulsion, the Election Commission announced by-election on his seat. Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appealed to the court to stay the elections while the matter is sub-judice.

• Potential controversy: Singhvi said, “If by-elections are held and the Supreme Court later cancels the expulsions, the situation will become complicated.”
• Court’s stand: The Supreme Court refused to stay the elections but decided to hold the final hearing of the case on January 9.

Supreme Court’s displeasure

Regarding indiscipline in Parliament and Assemblies, the Supreme Court said that the conduct of leaders is a mirror of democracy. The court emphasized that representatives of the public should exercise restraint in their words and actions.

problems need to be solved

• Discipline of leaders: The Supreme Court tried to remind the members that their behavior in the House affects the dignity of democracy.
• Protection of democratic values: Every member has the right to express dissent in the House, but its manner should be dignified and respectful.