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New Rajya Sabha Chairman: Why CP Radhakrishnan's Welcome Signals a Tense Session

The Winter Session of Parliament opened with CP Radhakrishnan assuming charge as the new Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. JP Nadda led a warm welcome, highlighting Radhakrishnan's extensive administrative experience as a former Governor. Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge extended congratulations but firmly reminded the House of democratic values and the need for impartiality. The new Chairman takes charge during a period of significant political tension in the Lok Sabha.

Key Points: JP Nadda Welcomes CP Radhakrishnan as New Rajya Sabha Chairman

  • JP Nadda praised Radhakrishnan's dedication from his tenure as Governor of multiple states
  • Opposition leader Kharge congratulated him but stressed the need for fairness and space for critique
  • The appointment comes amid heightened political tensions and recent disruptions in Parliament
  • Radhakrishnan's political journey includes being a two-time MP and former Tamil Nadu BJP president
2 min read

JP Nadda welcomes CP Radhakrishnan as new Rajya Sabha Chairman; calls him a committed leader

JP Nadda and Mallikarjun Kharge welcome new Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan, praising his experience amid calls for impartiality and fair conduct.

"a democracy turns into tyranny if it does not allow the Opposition to criticise freely and frankly. - Mallikarjun Kharge"

New Delhi, December 1

In a significant opening to the Winter Session of Parliament, newly elected Vice President CP Radhakrishnan received a warm and emphatic welcome in the Rajya Sabha on Monday as he assumed charge as Chairman of the Upper House.

Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha and Union Minister JP Nadda led the treasury benches' greetings, praising Radhakrishnan's long administrative and political journey and expressing confidence in his ability to steer the House with dignity and fairness.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Nadda highlighted Radhakrishnan's extensive experience as Governor of Maharashtra and Jharkhand, and his additional responsibilities as Governor of Telangana and Lt. Governor of Puducherry.

"When you became the Governor of Maharashtra, you visited each district. The same dedication was seen in Jharkhand. This shows your commitment to society and the welfare of the states," Nadda said. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had nominated Radhakrishnan for the Vice Presidency with full faith in his leadership. "We are confident that you will conduct the proceedings of the Upper House of the world's largest democracy very well."

Invoking former President Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, Nadda reiterated the importance of responsible parliamentary conduct: "In the House, we should behave as responsible members of the Parliament and not irresponsible professional agitators."

Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge also extended his congratulations, though with pointed reminders about neutrality and democratic values. Quoting Dr Radhakrishnan's historic acceptance speech, Kharge urged the new Chairman to uphold fairness, impartiality and space for Opposition voices. He emphasised that "a democracy turns into tyranny if it does not allow the Opposition to criticise freely and frankly."

Kharge further noted Radhakrishnan's familial ties to Congress - his uncle CK Kuppuswamy was a three-term Lok Sabha MP, while assuring the Opposition's cooperation in ensuring smooth proceedings. He also referred to former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar's abrupt resignation earlier this year. This remark drew sharp rebuttal from Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who accused Congress of past disrespect towards Dhankhar.

Radhakrishnan, a two-time MP from Coimbatore and former Tamil Nadu BJP President, takes charge at a time of heightened political tensions, with the Lok Sabha witnessing disruptions over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of voter lists.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Kharge's reminder about neutrality is crucial. The Chairman's role is not just ceremonial; it's the bedrock of a functional democracy. Hope he truly ensures the Opposition gets its fair space to speak, as the article mentions.
V
Vikram M
Good to see a leader from Tamil Nadu in such a high position. His political journey from state BJP chief to this role is impressive. Let's hope he can manage the heated debates with the dignity the House deserves.
P
Priya S
The reference to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan is apt. We need more statesmen and fewer politicians in Parliament. Hope the new Chairman inspires that kind of conduct. The Winter Session has important bills, proceedings must be productive.
R
Rohit P
While I wish him the best, the immediate political dig about Dhankhar's resignation shows the atmosphere he's stepping into. His real test will be keeping order without appearing partisan. Tough job ahead.
M
Michael C
Interesting that his uncle was a Congress MP. Goes to show political families in India often have members across parties. Hopefully, this background gives him a balanced perspective in the Chair.

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