This refers to the editorial “Parliament derailed” (November 30). Democracy is the basic feature of our Constitution, and for a successful and vibrant democracy, it is imperative that Parliament functions effectively so that the voice of Indians is heard through the representatives chosen by them. It is, therefore, preposterous for the Opposition to stall the House sine die over its demand for setting up a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The Comptroller and Auditor General’s (CAG) report is already before the House and can be discussed by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Moreover, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is already investigating the matter so the Opposition’s demand for a JPC seems to be out of line. It appears that the Opposition is being insistent only with a view to summoning the prime minister or other ministers to embarrass the government. If the Opposition is serious about unearthing the “scam”, it should raise the issue in the House, which is the biggest committee in the country.
K D Singh, New Delhi
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