India Tomorrow
NEW DELHI— The Vice President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Prof Salim Engineer, has voiced concern over the suspension of 141 Opposition MPs from Parliament and called it “perilous” for democracy.
In a statement to the media, the JIH Vice-President said, “We are deeply concerned over what is happening in Parliament. More than 141 Opposition MPs have been suspended for demanding a statement from the Home Minister regarding the recent security breach in Parliament. Jamaat feels the suspension is unprecedented, unjust, high-handed, and perilous for democracy. The Opposition plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable, representing alternative viewpoints, and ensuring a checks-and-balances mechanism. Arbitrarily suspending the Opposition undermines these fundamental principles, and the consequences can be detrimental to our democracy and constitutional values. A Parliament without any space for Opposition is the hallmark of totalitarian and fascist regimes and we must avoid moving in that dangerous direction. Without an Opposition, there will be zero accountability for the government, and nobody to question the government’s decisions and actions.”
Prof Salim pointed out, “With almost the entire opposition kept out for the Winter Session, all Bills (including some draconian laws) tabled in Parliament will be passed without any discussion. The suspension of MPs goes against the tall claims of the ruling party leadership of being guardians of the mother of democracy and exposes their authoritarian mindset. Jamaat-e-Islami demands the government to revoke the suspension of the MPs and appeals to all lawmakers to respect the dignity of people and the decorum of the house.”
