National

Manmohan hints at more relief to ryots

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday said the government would not be found wanting in doing more for farmers, if need be.

Responding to the concern expressed by several retiring members of the Rajya Sabha in their farewell speech in the House, Dr. Singh said the issue of farmers was important and if more was needed, it would be done. Fifty-seven members from 17 States are completing their six-year term in April and May.

He reiterated that the government would take steps to evolve a broad-based consensus to bring for consideration of Parliament the Women’s Reservation Bill.

Referring to suggestions made by independent member P.C. Alexander and Eknath Thakur (Shiv Sena) about taking a hard look at issues of corruption and economic disparity, Dr. Singh said these were concerns that could not be swept under the carpet.

“We should reflect whether all the talent and energy in the House is being fully utilised to contribute to find solutions to the nation’s problems.”

The Prime Minister made a special mention of some of the retiring members including Suresh Pachouri, M.V. Rajashekharan, P.C. Alexander, Eknath K. Thakur, Ramdeo Bhandary, Janardhana Poojary, Prema Cariappa, Ravula Chandra Sekar Reddy and BJP members Shatrughan Sinha and Keshubhai Patel, who were not present. He said having fought cancer, Mr. Thakur was a profile in courage.

There were rare scenes of bonhomie, with MPs from all sides appreciating the contributions made by the retiring members.

Chairman Hamid Ansari noted that the retirement of one-third of the members every second year ensured “a sort of continuity and change” in the composition of the House. “Many of the retiring members are fine orators who have mastered the art of debate and even while criticising their political opponents, have maintained dignity and decency.”

Deputy Chairman K. Rehman Khan noted that all the retiring members used to participate in debates, giving voice to important issues, and cooperated with him although there were heated exchanges.

Leader of the Opposition Jaswant Singh described it as a moment of sadness, while Sitaram Yechury (CPI-M) said the members were saying goodbye not to politics but to membership of the House.

Prof. Bhandary, who was a member for 16 years, recalled his humble beginnings and said it was a “historic occasion” for him when he joined the House.

While AIADMK leader V. Maitreyan recalled the members’ role in adding wit and life to the House, D. Raja (CPI) said for political activists, retirement was “notional. The work goes on.”

Mr. Pachouri, who was a member for 24 years, said for him the House was “the highest institution of learning.”

Samajwadi Party member Shahid Siddiqui said it felt like he was leaving college.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu