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Prasad, the father of famous film director SS Rajamouli and an RS member, expressed concern over the lack of participation from certain members and the constant disruptions in Parliament
Prasad sought to draw the attention of the Rajya Sabha towards issues that will be productive in the long run, including holding regular debates and discussions on pressing matters like global warming. (PTI)
For V Vijayendra Prasad, one call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi changed his destiny in 2022 as the writer of blockbusters like Baahubali and RRR was nominated to the Rajya Sabha as a Member of Parliament.
Two-and-a-half years down the line, Prasad has written a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, offering suggestions on how to make the House of elders more productive and responsible.
A man of few words, Prasad said he was pained to see the lack of participation by several members. “Install facial recognition cameras at every door of the Rajya Sabha to accurately record members’ presence. This system will log entry and exit timings, ensuring an accurate record of not only the days they were present in the RS but also the time spent in the proceedings,” Prasad wrote, offering a solution.
Another suggestion offered by Prasad — the father of famous film director SS Rajamouli — is to look into detailed discussion on the basis of starred questions. “Ministers should circulate their answers to starred questions the previous day, not only to the member who asked the question but to all Rajya Sabha members. This will allow members to review the responses thoroughly and prepare more meaningful and informed supplementary questions,” he suggested.
In his communication to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the film writer expressed his anguish over the frequent disruptions in Parliament, saying it leads to unnecessary chaos and does not give equal time to the members to express their views on a subject.
Offering an example, he said: “In a debate two years ago, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, while speaking on the Kaveri river, faced the wrath of another MP from Tamil Nadu on the issue. As the pandemonium continued, MPs from both the states kept shouting at each other, and it took the Chair a good 10 minutes to restore order in the House. By that time, the purpose of the debate was diluted.”
He added: “In such instances, the Chair should select one of the six panel speakers who has no political or geographical affiliation with either parties involved. Generally, the Sabha starts at 11am. It is proposed that the Sabha start at 9am under the chairmanship of the selected panel speaker. During this time, members who wish to speak may do so, and those who wish to listen are also welcome.”
Among the other suggestions given by him is the effective use of technology on the floor of the House. Prasad — who has also written the hit Salman Khan film Bajrangi Bhaijaan — said members must be allowed to keep tablets on their desk to be connected with the television and other monitors to help them better explain with pictures and graphics the point that they are trying to make. With the permission of the Chair, such information and graphics can be displayed in the House for the benefit of all members. “This would certainly provide clarity during debates and discussion.”
He also sought to draw the attention of the Rajya Sabha towards issues that will be productive in the long run, including holding regular debates and discussions on pressing matters like global warming.
Prasad goes on to say that the number of people retiring is gradually on the rise and, at present, 50 million people are getting pension. “It would be vital for any country to make use of their experience. Some are active, even at the age of 70 and can be valuable assets for the country given their exposure.” He cites that the onus must be taken up by the Upper House to have discussions on such matters, which have long-lasting impact. The writer adds that the Lok Sabha is generally busy in discussing day-to-day issues, but the Rajya Sabha must take up crucial matters.
