Put an end to profanity

AP government should realise stifling opposition and its dissent is detrimental to the interests of democracy and shall prove to be counterproductive in the long run. Similarly, opposition should focus only on public issues without indulging in undesirable discourse

The Andhra Pradesh State Legislature ever since its formation has been witnessing belligerent scenes with ruling and opposition parties at loggerheads on anything and everything. This has even reached ugly proportions seriously eroding the sanctity of legislative institutions. There seems to be no end to this. But, despite claims and counter claims on the culpability for this kind of dubious situation, the fact remains that people are at a loss.

The new legislature came into existence amidst great hopes and grave concerns about the future of the State aggrieved by the nature in which the united Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated. The challenges before the residuary state require politics of reconciliation. But, such a statesmanship is lacking on the both sides.

Legislative institutions are obviously political houses. The nature of politics would determine the nature of the house and its proceedings. The personal animosity between the Leader of House and the Leader of Opposition is reflected in the way the House is functioning. It is totally unlikely that there would be any rapprochement. In fact, this personal rivalry dates back to the days of Naidu being the opposition leader and Jaganmohan Reddy’s father YS Rajasekhara Reddy was the unassailable Chief Minister.

The bitter acrimony between TDP and YSR Congress reached an all-time high as the two had a close finish in the last elections. Absence of any other political party in house turned it into one-to-one battle between two leaders and two parties. The time has come for the two sides to realise the futility of such a parochial war. Members are often seen disregarding the basic legislative decorum. Frequent interruptions and running commentary by members of the rival group with an intention to distract the attention of the member speaking has become a daily routine.

The ruling party is in no mood to even recognise the opposition voice. Personal attack seems to be the weapon used by it to corner the opposition leader. Even opposition is resorting to personal attack and unrelated speeches even at a slightest provocation by the ruling party. Surprisingly even ministers are part of this war of words. The leaders of both camps are making no effort to pacify their members or control their unwarranted behavior.

The government should realise that stifling opposition and its dissent is detrimental to the interests of democracy and shall prove to be counterproductive in the long run. Similarly, opposition should concentrate only on public issues without indulging in undesirable discourse. The conventions and traditions of legislative business are sacrificed at the altar of partisan interests. Perhaps the legislature too needs an independent ombudsman. The political system should wake up before the people lose confidence in democratic polity that would be disastrous for everyone. Cacophony should give way to informed debate.